Outlander actor Greggory Odjig cleared of ‘raping unconscious woman’ in Glasgow hotel

Outlander Star Greggory Odjig Acquitted of Allegations the He Raped Unconscious Woman in Glasgow Hotel

Outlander actor Greggory Odjig has been cleared of rape allegations after a trial at the High Court in Stirling. The 47-year-old indigenous Canadian actor was accused of raping a woman, a part-time actress in her 30s, at a serviced apartment in Glasgow where the cast and crew of the series were staying. The prosecution alleged that the woman was incapable of giving or withholding consent due to intoxication when Odjig allegedly removed her lower clothing and carried out the act. However, the court heard that no trace of Odjig’s DNA was found on intimate swabs taken from the woman after the alleged incident in May 2021.

A jury of nine women and six men deliberated for less than an hour before delivering a unanimous verdict of not proven. Judge Lady Poole informed Odjig that he had been acquitted by the decision and was free to go. Odjig, who wore traditional motifs on his jacket and a Golden Eagle brooch, symbolising closeness to deity, expressed relief at the verdict, stating, “I have always known I was not guilty… you cannot hide the truth.”

Outside the court, Odjig expressed concern over Scotland’s not proven verdict, which he believes may impact his career prospects. He stated, “A not proven verdict will make it more difficult to get my career back. I would have preferred not guilty, because that is what I am.” Throughout the trial, Odjig maintained his innocence, denying the rape allegations.

During the trial, the alleged victim testified that Odjig, whom she had known for four years, had invited her to his suite after a day out with her sister and child in Edinburgh. She claimed to have woken up to find herself undressed after being given a glass of wine by Odjig and passing out. Odjig, on the other hand, stated that he had not engaged in any sexual contact with the woman but had only comforted her by spooning.

Further details emerged during the trial, including an altercation between Odjig and another indigenous Canadian actor, Glenn Gould, following the alleged incident. The victim’s son reportedly recorded the altercation, during which Mr. Gould intervened to protect the victim and her family.

In conclusion, the not proven verdict in the case of Greggory Odjig has sparked discussions around the legal implications for his career and the portrayal of such verdicts in the media. The outcome of the trial underscores the complexities of cases involving sexual assault allegations and the impact they can have on all parties involved.

My Insights:
The case highlights the importance of thorough investigations in cases of sexual assault to ensure justice is served for all parties involved. The not proven verdict system in Scotland is under scrutiny, with calls for reform to provide clearer outcomes in sensitive cases. The impact of such high-profile trials on the accused’s career and personal life sheds light on the broader implications of legal proceedings beyond the courtroom.