A top cop has slammed an 'appalling' predator who committed 21 sexual offences against women.

Steffan Cox was sentenced at Glasgow's High Court on Wednesday for the sick crimes, which included rape, sexual assault and stalking.

The 25-year-old carried out the vile acts in Paisley and in other areas of the country between 2016 and 2022.

After being found guilty of 21 counts of sexual offences, Cox has been jailed for 12 years and nine months followed by a further four years of extended sentence supervision.

He is also on the Sex Offenders register indefinitely. 

Barrhead News:

The conviction has been welcomed by Detective Sergeant Julie Nedley of the National Rape Taskforce.

She said: "Cox is now facing the consequences of his appalling and predatory behaviour.

"The victims have shown great courage in coming forward with vital information, making sure he was held accountable for his actions, and ultimately convicted.

"I want to take the opportunity to thank the public and partner agencies for their assistance and information provided, particularly in providing support to the women involved.

"I hope this sentence provides a sense of closure for them and sends a clear message that all reports of sexual abuse, regardless of the passage of time, will be thoroughly investigated by Police Scotland and victims will be supported throughout.”

Cox repeatedly targeted young women he met through Instagram and dating apps by making anonymous, threatening and indecent telephone calls to them.

One of his victims was only 15 years old, and he threatened to rape another so her child could hear her screams. 

Cox previously pleaded guilty to indecent communication offences on February 3.

If you wish to report a sexual crime to Police Scotland, then please do so by contacting officers on 101, or by making an anonymous report to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Rape Crisis helpline can be called on 0141 331 4180.