Man jailed for attempted rape of woman in Edinburgh city centre
The incident took place in the Thistle Street North East Lane in November 2025
A man has been jailed after the attempted rape of a woman in Edinburgh city centre.
Olaksandr Dupik, 34, has been sentenced to four years behind bars following a sentencing hearing at the High Court in Edinburgh on Wednesday, July 1.
He previously pled guilty to the attempted rape of the victim.
The incident took place in the Thistle Street North East Lane area of the city centre in November 2025.
Sentencing him to four years behind bars during Wednesday’s hearing, Lady Drummond said: “Unusually the incident is recorded on CCTV which was played to the court.
“It is obvious from the footage that the complainer was in a highly intoxicated and vulnerable state. You had never met her until that night.
“It must have been obvious to you that she was intoxicated and incapable of consenting to any sexual activity. She can be seen being held up by others who were concerned for her wellbeing. Yet, knowing her vulnerable state, you led her down a dark and isolated lane and attempted to rape her.”
Lady Drummond explained that the “only thing that stopped” Dupik’s attack was a nearby security guard, who intervened in the attack after seeing Dupik and the victim on CCTV.
She said: “The security guard is to be commended for the actions he took out of his concern and care towards the complainer. Had he not interrupted, I have no doubt that you would have persisted in your actions.”
Detective Inspector Stephanie Garnett said: “Dupik’s actions were appalling and he will now have to face the consequences of his behaviour.
“We take all reports of sexual crime extremely seriously and I would encourage anyone who has experienced this kind of abuse to contact us on 101. You will be listened to and supported.”