Imagine, if you can, being the victim of the most horrendous crime of violence. Then imagine the unbelievable courage it takes to report your attack to the police, undergo the most invasive medical examination to help gather evidence, and finally be persuaded that you were doing the right thing by going to court to seek justice.

Imagine further the trauma of reliving the whole horrific ordeal in all its microscopic detail – at least once to the police, and finally in court – Its effects on you and knowing you will carry the devastation with you for the rest of your life. Finally, imagine your sense of overwhelming fortitude and defiance as you give your evidence to see your assailant convicted. Every one tells you how unbelievably brave you were – for you were, that it’s all over, and that justice will finally be served. You still have a long road to travel but it feels that little bit easier. A huge weight has been lifted as you begin to believe you can shape your future and not be defined by your past.

Then imagine as your world crashes down once more as you’re told your assailant couldn’t be bothered to turn up in court to finally learn his fate, has skipped bail and is on the run. His cowardice continued to the last. You will have a thousand questions: what was the point? Am I safe? What if he comes for me? But the one you keep returning to time and again is how? How could this happen?

And the truth is every bit as cruel as you feared as you braced yourself for answers. You were failed by the system. That horrendous bastard........

© Herald Scotland