Man Jailed for Raping Intoxicated Teen After Buying Her Alcohol
Paul Cunningham Found Guilty at Stirling High Court
Paul Cunningham, 35, was convicted of raping a teenage girl after getting her and a friend drunk in September 2020. The jury at Stirling High Court returned a unanimous verdict against the father-of-one, rejecting his denial of the charges. Cunningham’s 1 will remain on the sex offenders register indefinitely.
Victim Felt Uncomfortable But Was Ignored
The court heard Cunningham bought alcohol for the schoolgirl and her friend before taking them to Darnley Park in Stirling’s historic “Top of the Town” area. The victim told investigators she felt uneasy with Cunningham, who was an adult hanging around her group. She said he kept making inappropriate comments like: “You’re fit, you’re so fit,” which made her feel really uncomfortable.
Victim Claims Cunningham Ignored Her Age
The girl revealed she told Cunningham her age, but he “didn’t care.” After the assault, she confided in a relative, breaking down in tears and describing the rape. The victim bravely faced the jury to tell her story.
Judge Condemns Cunningham’s Actions
“The jury, by returning a unanimous verdict, accepted that having bought her alcohol, you raped a young girl who was a total stranger to you in circumstances which on the evidence can only be described as disgraceful and inexcusable.” – Judge Lord Weir
Patricia Baillie, defending Cunningham, said there was little she could add in mitigation as her client maintained his innocence throughout the trial.
