A SERIAL domestic abuser from Ayr has been jailed for five years for a catalogue of serious sexual and violent offences against three partners.

Gary Gallacher was sentenced yesterday at the High Court in Edinburgh and was given an order of lifelong restriction for his crimes that occurred between 1995 and 2012.

Detective Inspector Gillian Faulds, who led the investigation, said: "Gary Gallacher is a very dangerous individual who carried out a campaign of violence on three partners who will no doubt be affected by the experience for the rest of their lives. 

"Some of his attacks were so violent that he left the women with permanent scarring.

"Despite the horrific abuse the women suffered at the hands of Gallacher, they managed to find the strength to speak to police and testify in court to ensure that he was held to account for his actions. 

"I would like to thank the women for their bravery in coming forward because without their support we would not be where we are today and Gallacher would still be free.

"I hope today’s outcome gives the women some sort of closure and sends a clear message to anyone who thinks that it’s ok to treat anyone in this way. 

"Police Scotland will not tolerate domestic abuse in any form and we will do all we can to identify offenders, unravel their crimes and bring them to justice."