A 61 year old man has been sentenced to an order of lifelong restriction for a series of sexual and violent offences committed against women in Inverness and across the north Highlands.

Bruce Buchanan was sentenced on Monday 30 March, 2026 at the High Court in Edinburgh following his conviction in February 2025.

The offences, which included rape, assault to severe injury and multiple assaults, took place over a period spanning more than three decades between June 1986 and June 2017.

The court imposed an order of lifelong restriction, meaning Buchanan will be subject to strict supervision for the rest of his life.

He must serve a minimum of five years in prison, after which parole authorities will determine if and when he can be released.

A non harassment order has also been granted to protect his victims.

Buchanan was arrested on Thursday 4 February, 2021 following an investigation launched after victims came forward.

Detective Inspector Gordon Patullo said:

“Buchanan is an abusive individual who showed no remorse for his violent and abusive behaviour against these women.

“I would like to commend the women for their strength in coming forward.

“Their information was essential in helping us build the case against Buchanan, and I hope this outcome provides them with some sense of closure.

“Police Scotland takes all reports of violence and sexual crime extremely seriously.

“We have specialist officers to listen and support those who have experienced this kind of crime.

“I would urge anyone who has experienced sexual abuse to please come forward and make a report to us, no matter the passage of time.”

The case highlights the long term impact of serious offending and the importance of victims coming forward, regardless of how much time has passed.

Police say support remains available for anyone affected by similar crimes, with specialist officers trained to provide assistance throughout the process.