Teenage rapist a 'dangerous and predatory individual'

A teenage boy who raped and sexually assaulted other children has been branded “a dangerous and predatory individual”.

Police said the teen had shown “no remorse” towards his victims and accused him of playing “on their vulnerabilities”.

His offences, committed in the East Ayrshire area between July and August 2019, included two counts of rape, two counts of sexual assault and assault to danger of life.

An investigation was launched by detectives from Kilmarnock’s Public Protection Unit, which resulted in the then 16-year-old being arrested and charged in connection with the incidents.

The now 17-year-old was found guilty following a trial at the High Court in Glasgow on Friday.

Following his conviction, detective inspector Martin Prendergast said: “This teenager is a dangerous and predatory individual who has shown no remorse towards the victims, all of whom were children.

“He played on their vulnerabilities and his actions will no doubt have lasting effects on them.

“These were horrific crimes for someone of such a young age to commit and we welcome his conviction today.

“Police Scotland is committed to the protection of children and to bringing all perpetrators of sexual abuse to justice.

“We would urge anyone who wishes to report any child protection concerns or sexual crime to contact us on 101 so we can conduct a thorough investigation.

“We will always treat reports of sexual offences with the utmost professionalism and sensitivity.”