Simon Irvine jailed for rape and abuse of four women
A man who was convicted of a catalogue of abuse against four women - including physical attacks and five rapes - has been jailed for seven years.
Simon Irvine, 27, was found guilty of 20 charges against former girlfriends dating back to March 2003.
The High Court in Edinburgh heard the abuse happened at addresses in Glasgow, Renfrewshire and South Lanarkshire.
Judge Lady Wise made an order extending the time Irvine will remain on licence after his prison sentence.
The court heard from the four women who gave evidence against Irvine.
One victim told how he brandished a knife at her and made her strip so that he could sniff her genitals.
Another was bitten, had her hair pulled and had drinks thrown over her in a student union bar in Paisley.
Irvine also held a knife against her neck as he pulled off her trousers, dragged her into another room and shut her in a cupboard. Irvine also demanded oral sex.
A third woman described verbal abuse leading to punching and scratching - and having a cat thrown at her.
On another occasion, Irvine pushed a can into her face. She was also punched to the ground and made to perform oral sex and raped.
Another victim said Irvine dug his nails into her face and mouth and pressed a knife against her throat until the skin was cut and throttled her until she passed out.
Irvine also demanded to inspect her underwear. She was also raped and made to perform oral sex.
Prior to sentencing, Irvine's defence QC Edward Targowski pleaded for leniency on the grounds of his client's up-bringing, including long spells at residential schools for troubled young people.
He said Irvine recognised he had "issues with anger management" and had to come to terms with the fact that his anger "could be interpreted in a sexual way".
The court was also told that Irvine hoped to change as he had a new girlfriend who was standing by him.
Referring to his victims while jailing Irvine, judge Lady Wise said: "Each said you were charming and loving initially before then changing to become possessive, jealous and violent."
The judge told him his criminal conduct towards women had been a serious issue for several years.
But she noted: "You do appear to be willing to work with the prison authorities to address the issue of domination and control of female partners."