Predatory care home attacker ‘stole dignity of victim’s final years’

A “dangerous” former care worker who sexually assaulted two vulnerable women showed “calculated, predatory recklessness”, a court heard.

Robert Wilson, 53, attacked Yvonne Carnie, 68, at a residence in East Lothian “on a number of occasions” between August 2022 and February 2023.

Ms Carnie died in 2025, before seeing her attacker brought to justice.

Wilson raped another woman in Tranent, East Lothian, in 2013.

Wilson was convicted at the High Court in Edinburgh on April 29 and sentenced to eight years in prison at the same court on Tuesday.

Ms Carnie’s family later issued a statement through law firm Digby Brown, saying Wilson had robbed her of her dignity in her final years.

“No amount of time spent in custody can undo the calculated, predatory disregard this man showed our mother, made worse by his lack of remorse and sickening denial,” the statement said.

“While we bear the painful weight of her suffering and the dignity stolen from her final years, we are proud of her courage, which became the key to stopping the abuse.

“This case exposed what happens when a predator uses its position to groom and isolate a vulnerable individual.

“Our family will have time to address the systemic failures that allowed this to happen.

“We want to thank everyone who supports us, but today is the day our mother’s voice is finally heard.”

High Court Sexual Offenses Fiscal Prosecutor Faye Cook described Wilson as “a dangerous man who engaged in manipulative and sexually abusive behavior towards vulnerable women”.

He continued: “The evidence showed a clear pattern of how he targeted them. It showed a man who crossed the same boundaries over and over again.”

“He used trust to gain control. He used access to create opportunities. He used his position of power to sexually exploit women who could not stop him.”

“I am grateful to the women who spoke out about their experiences and to everyone who helped secure this conviction, including the brave victim who sadly died before the trial.

“Scotland’s prosecutors will continue to pursue those who abuse women and support those affected throughout the prosecution process.”

Detective Constable Emma Maurer, Police Scotland, said: “Above all, our thoughts are with the women and their families affected by this appalling breach of trust.

“Those in care are among the most vulnerable members of our community and they have the right to feel safe, respected and protected.

“These women have shown tremendous strength by coming forward about the abuse they suffered.

“Wilson’s crimes were deeply distressing for women. This type of sexual abuse will never be tolerated and this case shows that those who exploit individuals will be pursued and held accountable for their actions.”

“I would urge anyone who has been the victim of physical or sexual abuse to report it to us, regardless of when it happened.

“All reports are investigated thoroughly and we have specially trained officers and partner organizations to support you through this process.”