http://www.sundaymail.co.uk/shtml/NEWS/P15S1.shtml
MASONIC COVER-UP CLAIM ON RAPE COP
EXCLUSIVE
RAPIST cop Adam Carruthers may have used masonic links to cover up his
crimes, it was claimed yesterday.
The former police inspector was jailed for 12 years last week for raping two
women.
Now, 31 women in Dumfries and Galloway have come forward to accuse him of
sexual assaults, including rape.
An inquiry into the new allegations is being handled by Lothian and Borders
officers.
Carruthers, 38, used his status to threaten terrified victims into keeping
quiet.
His sexual conduct brought warnings from his bosses, dating back 16 years. He
was still promoted to inspector.
The first inquiry, carried out by Dumfries and Galloway colleagues, collapsed
in 1998.
Last night, insiders hinted masonic links might have helped him escape
justice.
A former senior officer, who served with Carruthers, said: "It would be more
surprising if he was not a mason.
"He was known to be involved with women in various towns and there were
complaints. But he was simply moved and was promoted."
Former Labour MP Maria Fyfe urged the Scottish Executive to launch an
independent inquiry into the masonic links, adding: "It's extraordinary he
was promoted when his behaviour was known about."
Dr Elaine Murray, MSP for Dumfries, backed her call.
A lodge spokesman and Dumfries and Galloway Police said masonic membership
would not have altered how Carruthers was dealt with.
|
