A FORMER child psychiatrist who sexually and indecently assaulted a female patient in Perth almost 30 years ago has been jailed for five years and two months.
Ian Stuart McAlpine, 70, was convicted by a jury of seven offences committed against a 17-year-old girl in 1989, but was acquitted of charges related to a second complainant.
McAlpine initially kissed the girl on the lips and told her it was their secret, then his offending escalated over time, the WA District Court heard on Wednesday.
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READ NOWShe eventually complained to the Medical Practice Board in 1991 and McAlpine admitted having a sexual relationship with her, resulting in him being struck from the roll of medical practitioners.
Police were also informed but no charges were laid at the time.
Judge Hylton Quail said the victim was dependent on McAlpine and he brainwashed her into believing he loved her.
McAlpine abandoned his responsibilities as the girl’s psychiatrist, playing on her insecurities and seducing her, Judge Quail said.
“Though she felt dirty and ashamed, she needed your love,” he said.
Judge Quail said McAlpine took advantage of a vulnerable victim who was unlikely to complain, and had not showed any true remorse for his actions.
“You continue to minimise what you did,” he said.
The court heard McAlpine was previously fined for indecently assaulting a 15-year-old patient in 1985.
McAlpine must spend at least three years and two months behind bars before he can be eligible for parole.
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