A man from Stirling, Scotland, has been sentenced to 11 years behind bars and nine under supervision, for repeatedly physically and sexually abusing his two victims who he made live as “house pets” and wear dog collars and tags. Scott Lannister, who was found guilty of three counts of rape and two of domestic abuse, was given a 20-year extended sentence, a place on the sex offenders register, and an indefinite non-harassment order against his victims.
The victims, one of whom was a 26-year-old autistic man, met Lannister on Telegram. Upon meeting, Lannister immediately forced the man to wear a collar and tag, eventually becoming “very aggressive” and forcing him to wear a dog collar and neoprene puppy mask “pretty much 24/7,” as well as sleep on a dog bed in a cupboard. Lannister would grab the victim by the collar and rape him, also carving letters into his back with a scalpel.
Lannister also physically abused a second victim, who is now aged 21, as seen in a video seized by police and presented in court. Both victims told the court that they were forced to turn over their benefit money to Lannister, who was described as long-term medically unemployed.
While searching Lannister’s flat, police found surgical blades, a wooden baton, metal chains, rubber dog-masks and numerous other dog-related items such as collars, leads, beds, tags, and a large padded dog crate. Lannister, who is also known as Scott Hanlon, denied the offences, claiming the men consented. However, in the trial, the victims showed “great bravery” in speaking out and Lannister was found guilty.
This case highlights the need for vigilance against abuse, particularly within the LGBT community where victims may feel hesitant to come forward due to societal stigmas. The procurator fiscal for high court sexual offences, Fraser Gibson, urged victims of similar crimes to seek help and offered support to those who do.
This case serves as a reminder that no one should have to suffer through abuse or be forced to endure a degrading and violent lifestyle. It is only through the courage of the victims and the vigilance of the authorities that cases like this can be brought to justice.