Rapist abused four men and attacked sleeping victim

A rapist who subjected four men to a catalogue of physical and psychological abuse has been jailed for a minimum of ten years.

Mantas Vanagas, 27, attacked his victims at different places during offending that spanned over 16 months.

The 27-year-old was found guilty of four charges following a trial at the High Court in Paisley on November 26, 2024.

The sex offender, from Milton Keynes, was described as a “dangerous and predatory individual” and the victims were hailed for their “bravery” after recounting their experiences.

Katrina Parkes, procurator fiscal for High Court Sexual Offences, said at the High Court in Edinburgh on Monday that Vanagas “showed no regard for the wellbeing of the victims”.

His offending began at different addresses in Kirkintilloch and Paisley in 2021 when he targeted a former partner and subjected him to derogatory remarks, threatened to harm himself, refused to leave the home and made alarming remarks about rape towards him.

On one occasion, the abuser pushed the victim on the body, causing him to fall onto a bed. He then seized him by the neck and choked him.

Vanagas was also found guilty of biting the man on his neck and throwing a shoe at him.

He was convicted of sexually assaulting two other men and raping a third while he was asleep and unable to consent.

On Monday, the High Court in Edinburgh gave him a 14-year extended sentence with ten years in custody.

As well as three sexual assault charges, Vanagas was also found guilty of domestic abuse.

His name was added to the sex offenders register indefinitely and non-harassment orders, banning Vanagas from contacting or attempting to contact the four victims, were granted for an indefinite period.

Scotland’s Procurator Fiscal for High Court Sexual Offending, Katrina Parkes said: “Mantas Vanagas is a dangerous and predatory individual who showed no regard for the wellbeing of the victims.

“It is thanks to their bravery in coming forward and reporting their experiences that he has been held accountable.

“This prosecution and conviction sends a clear message that this type of offending has no place in society.

“I would urge anyone who has been the victim of similar offending to come forward and report it.

“You will be listened to and supported as we use all the tools available to use to seek justice.”

Police Scotland detective inspector Raymond Sagan added: “Vanagas is a dangerous individual who now faces the consequences of his despicable actions.

“We know how difficult it can be to report these types of crimes and I would like to commend his victims for their strength in coming forward during the investigation.

“Their information was essential in helping us build the case against him and I hope this outcome provides them with some sense of closure.

“If anyone has been the victim of abuse or a sexual crime, please report it. We have detectives dedicated to investigating such offences.

“You can be assured that you will be fully supported by officers and our partner agencies.”