A RAPIST has been convicted of serious sexual, violent and fraud offences committed in Inverclyde and elsewhere.

Christopher Harkins, 37 - who has been branded 'contemptible' by police - was found guilty by a jury at the High Court yesterday.

His campaign of abuse against women spanned seven years between 2013 and 2019 as he targeted them in Inverclyde, Glasgow, Lanarkshire, Edinburgh, Stirling, Paisley, and West Lothian.

Harkins previously pleaded guilty to financial abuse offences on January 16.
 
Police Scotland’s domestic abuse task force launched a proactive investigation into Harkins in October 2019. 
 
Detective Inspector Iain Renfrew of Police Scotland said Harkins met the women through a dating app, and once he had formed relationships with them, turned to manipulation, threats, coercive control and violence to obtain thousands of pounds which he used to fund his 'very lavish lifestyle'.

Detective Inspector Renfrew added: "Christopher Harkins is a violent and contemptible individual who preyed on woman looking for love and companionship.

"He made them believe they were in a loving and exclusive relationship but that was nowhere near the truth.

“His only motive was money.
 
"The fact that he has been convicted is a tremendous credit to the women who came forward to police.

"Their testimony is why he has been convicted today."

Detective Inspector Renfrew said the Harkins case highlighted different types of abuse.

He added: "This case highlights that domestic abuse is not just physical or sexual, it includes abusive behaviours or financial abuse.

"It is often about power and control and can have life changing consequences for victims.
 
"We sincerely hope that today’s conviction gives confidence to others who may experience anything similar to come forward, safe in the knowledge that police will investigate."

Harkins is due to be sentenced on July 3.