A man has been sentenced to more than five years in prison for sexual offences committed in the Highlands over a period spanning more than a decade.

Ashton Wilton, 40, was sentenced at the High Court in Edinburgh on 9 June after previously pleading guilty to charges of rape and indecent communication.

The offences took place in the Easter Ross area between 2007 and November 2020.

Wilton entered guilty pleas at the High Court in Edinburgh on 24 April before returning to court for sentencing this week.

The court imposed a prison sentence of five years and four months.

He has also been placed on the Sex Offenders Register.

Police Scotland welcomed the outcome and praised the victims for coming forward.

Detective Inspector Kevin Byrne said:

“Ashton Wilton’s actions were abhorrent and he will now have to face the consequences of his actions.

“I hope this sentence provides a sense of closure for the victims.

“Police Scotland takes reports of sexual crime seriously.

All reports, regardless of the passage of time, will be thoroughly investigated and victims will be supported throughout.”

The case serves as a reminder that serious sexual offences can be investigated and prosecuted many years after they occur.

Police Scotland has repeatedly encouraged victims of sexual crime to come forward, regardless of how much time has passed since an offence took place.

Specialist officers work alongside support organisations to assist victims throughout investigations and court proceedings.

Detectives say reports of sexual offending remain a priority and that all allegations are assessed thoroughly.

The force has also stressed that support is available for anyone affected by sexual crime, whether offences are recent or historic.

Wilton will now begin serving his sentence following the conclusion of court proceedings.