Iain Packer Likely Committed Further Sex Crimes Abroad, Survivor Claims
A survivor of convicted murderer Iain Packer has asserted that he likely committed additional sex crimes while on holiday abroad, a belief echoed by a former detective involved in the case. Magdalene Robertson, who was indecently assaulted by Packer at age 14 and raped at 15, expressed her conviction that his predatory behaviour extended beyond the UK.
Survivor's Testimony on Packer's Overseas Activities
Ms Robertson, who has waived her right to anonymity, detailed her concerns in an interview with Clyde 1's Beware Book podcast series. She described Packer as an "incubus" who "sucks the absolute life and the joy out of any circumstance whatsoever." Reflecting on his annual holidays to Florida, she argued that his criminal patterns would have persisted overseas.
"They've always went to Florida, Boxing Day, they went there every year for two years," she told the podcast. "So, he's been attacking people because you don't be a serial rapist and sexual offender and say, 'I'm on holiday from that'. Your habits go with you."
She speculated that Packer would have frequented sex clubs or strip clubs in Florida and potentially abused individuals in hotels. "I make that assumption. I would bet money on it," she added, noting she has contacted the FBI and is considering hiring a private investigator to probe his US activities further.
Former Detective Supports the Claim
Retired detective constable Stuart Hall, who worked on the initial investigation into Emma Caldwell's murder, concurred with Ms Robertson's assessment. He previously suggested that Ms Caldwell's killing might not have been Packer's first murder, and he believes offences occurred abroad as well.
"When people go on holiday, they go on holiday to relax, to let their hair down. So I don't see him going to stop any pattern of behaviour. That's who he is," Mr Hall stated. "So, absolutely. There'll be more in this country and I think wherever he's holidayed."
He also mentioned that police investigations had previously considered looking into Packer's activities in Spain, indicating broader international concerns.
Background on the Case and Ongoing Inquiry
Iain Packer was convicted in 2024 for the murder of 27-year-old Emma Caldwell, whose body was discovered in Limefield Woods, South Lanarkshire, in 2005. The conviction came nearly two decades after her death, alongside a series of sexual offences against other women. Packer received a life sentence with a minimum term of 36 years.
The Beware Book podcast series, named after a journal used by women in prostitution to warn about dangerous clients, examines Ms Caldwell's death and other cases from Glasgow in the 1990s and 2000s. A public inquiry chaired by Lord Scott KC is set to review the police investigation into the murder.
Police Scotland Deputy Chief Constable Alan Speirs emphasised the force's commitment to supporting the inquiry, stating: "Emma Caldwell's family have shown incredible courage and determination following her murder in 2005 and we are absolutely committed to supporting the inquiry and getting her loved ones the answers they deserve."
Ms Robertson first reported Packer to police in 2006, highlighting the prolonged struggle for justice in this harrowing case.
