Details of the case follow damning criticism of prosecutors over their failure to bring to justice a gang of men who repeatedly raped a woman with learning difficulties. 

The Baulds, from Cumbernauld, Lanarkshire, said they were first made aware of the incident on September 4 when someone from the college called to say Jamie had pushed another pupil, but the matter had been resolved and it was nothing to worry about. 

But a few weeks later they received another call saying police had become involved and an advert had been placed in the local newspaper calling for witnesses to a “racist assault”. 

Strathclyde Police officers visited the house to interview Jamie, but Mr Bauld said his son did not even understand what racism was. 

“Jamie didn’t really understand what was going on,” he added. “He was as surprised as we were.

“It was pure hell for my wife. It dragged on for months and we’re just delighted it’s over now.”

Mr Bauld said his son even shook the officers’ hands after the interview, in which he heard he could be charged with assault, and thanked them. 

Mrs Bauld said police needed more training for such situations. “I don’t think police have enough training to cope with people with learning difficulties,” she said. “If they have to come and speak to someone they should bring along someone who can deal with 

people with learning difficulties.” 

Mr Bauld added: “They were addressing Jamie like he was over 18, but I told them he couldn’t deal with questioning like that. He’ll more or less say what you want him to say, simple as that.” 

The couple also criticised the procurator fiscal for not keeping them updated on the case. They did not know if charges would be pursued for eight months. 

A Crown Office spokesman said last night: “We appreciate that the case was not concluded as quickly as it may have been and we apologise for any distress the family may have suffered.”