As he delivered his closing speech to the High Court in Glasgow, prosecutor John Keenan KC painted a stark picture of River City actor Iain Robertson's alleged actions against four women. Describing their testimonies as "strong and overwhelming", Keenan urged jurors to reject Robertson's claims of consent and convict him on seven charges spanning 2004 to 2020.
The actor, 45, denies all allegations, which include rape, assault, threats, and harassment. His lawyer, Gary Allan KC, acknowledged that Robertson had admitted to being "no angel" but questioned whether the jury could confidently disbelieve his account. Keenan countered by highlighting the women's detailed descriptions of their experiences with Robertson.
One woman, who knew Robertson from the River City set, alleged that she was raped in a scene that she described as "limp and unresponsive", with Robertson forcing himself on her despite her lack of participation. Robertson has maintained that any sexual contact between them was consensual.
An additional allegation, though not a formal charge, involves claims of non-consensual sexual contact with another woman in the Lake District in September 2007. Keenan stated that this woman described being forced into sexual activity despite repeated protests, characterising it as "controlling, humiliating and demeaning". He suggested that this was a recurring theme throughout the evidence presented by the other women.
Accusations involving a third woman, a fellow actor, include assault, threats, and harassment. Keenan reminded jurors of her testimony, where she spoke of Robertson's aggressive behaviour and disproportionately angry outbursts. The prosecutor also referenced claims that Robertson sent gifts, including Graze snack boxes, to the 40-year-old after their relationship ended. Keenan argued that while these gestures might seem innocuous, they take on a "far more sinister twist" when viewed within the context of alleged violent and controlling behaviour.
Addressing Robertson's own testimony, Keenan asserted that his denials and explanations included details "thought up on the hoof to explain difficult scenarios". Conversely, defence KC Gary Allan criticised the prosecution for seeming to fault Robertson for remembering too much detail in his testimony. Mr. Allan reiterated Robertson's admission of not being proud of certain conduct.