A convicted rapist from the United States who fled to Scotland after allegedly faking his own death has died in a hospital, Scottish authorities confirmed on Friday.
Fugitive's Capture and Health Decline
The man, identified as 54-year-old James Patrick Dempsey, was arrested in Edinburgh in March 2025 after a multi-year international manhunt. He had been on the run since 2022, when he disappeared shortly before his trial in New York on charges of rape and sexual assault. Authorities believe he faked his death by leaving a suicide note and a car near a bridge, prompting a search that found no body. He then fled to Scotland using a false identity.
Dempsey was extradited to the US in April 2025 but was found to have terminal cancer. He was hospitalized upon return and died on Thursday at a medical facility in New York, according to the US Marshals Service.
Victim's Statement and Legal Proceedings
The victim, who cannot be named for legal reasons, said in a statement: "I am relieved that this chapter is finally closed. He can no longer hurt anyone else." Dempsey had been convicted in absentia in 2023 and sentenced to 25 years to life. He maintained his innocence until his death.
Scottish police confirmed that Dempsey had been living in a rented flat in Edinburgh under the alias "John Smith" and worked odd jobs. He was arrested after a tip-off from a neighbor who recognized him from a television program.
Impact and Aftermath
The case highlighted challenges in cross-border fugitive tracking. US Marshals stated that Dempsey's death ends a "long and complex pursuit." His remains will be released to his family.
