Former Gym Boss James Clacher Convicted for Rapes After Faking Death, Fleeing Scotland, Tracked in Spain

James Clacher, a 57-year-old former gym boss, was convicted of raping two women he met on dating apps in 2019 and 2020 in Scotland. Facing charges, Clacher faked his own death in May 2022 by leaving his car and a suicide note near Loch Long, but instead fled to Nerja, Spain, where he lived under the false identity Johnny Wilson. He was eventually caught by the Spanish Civil Guard in May 2024 after a coordinated investigation involving British authorities, aided by his continued fitness activities. Both victims testified bravely at the High Court in Glasgow, recounting the traumatic assaults that took place in their homes. Clacher will be sentenced at a later date, and authorities have urged anyone experiencing sexual abuse to come forward for support and investigation. The case highlights law enforcement's commitment to pursuing offenders who evade justice, regardless of where they flee.