BRANDON WATSON FROM BLANTYRE SENTENCED TO SIX YEARS FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES AND REGISTERED AS SEX OFFENDER

A sexual predator has been sentenced to six years in prison for grooming two underage girls. Brandon Watson, from Blantyre, has also been placed on the Sex Offenders Register after pleading guilty to three serious sexual assaults, which included the statutory rape of two minors, grooming offences, and possession of indecent images of children.

Watson, 20 years old, was arrested by officers from Hamilton Police Office following a thorough and detailed investigation that began after one of the girls involved reported the incident. Detective Inspector David Tassie, the senior investigating officer, stated: "Thanks to one brave girl who raised the alarm via a social networking site, this sexual predator has been brought to justice. Her actions alerted the Child Exploitation and Online Protection (CEOP) Centre, which then contacted Strathclyde Police."

An immediate police investigation was launched, establishing a major incident room with a specialist inquiry team comprising detectives, computer crime officers, and sexual offences liaison officers. The investigation soon revealed that Watson had targeted additional girls, aged between 12 and 15, whom he groomed into committing various sexual acts both online and in person.

As part of the investigation, forensic psychologist Dr. Joe Sullivan was consulted and produced a report outlining manipulation tactics common among offenders like Watson. This report played a key role in securing the conviction.

Detective Inspector Tassie emphasized the disturbing nature of the case: "These girls were groomed online from the safety of their own homes. Unfortunately, predators like Watson exploit the internet to commit crimes. I cannot stress enough how crucial it is for parents and guardians to be aware of their children's online activities and the people they communicate with."

While Watson is currently off the streets and out of harm’s way, authorities remain vigilant. Detective Tassie added, "We will continue working with all organizations sharing intelligence and information in our efforts to prevent children from becoming online victims of crime."

Jennifer Harrower, District Prosecutor for Hamilton, commented: "This was a highly complex investigation into a prolific sex offender with a predatory approach to young girls, involving close cooperation between police and prosecutors. The investigation expanded as more details about Watson’s offending surfaced. We prioritized identifying crucial digital evidence to not only prosecute Watson but also to uncover further crimes and victims. Our justice system is increasingly adept at identifying offenders and securing convictions through specialist units and expert advice."

A spokesperson for CEOP stated: "Children and young people often do not understand the risks they face online. Talking to strangers or sharing photos may seem harmless at the time, but the consequences can be severe and long-lasting. The sentencing demonstrates that education and awareness can empower young people to make safer decisions. CEOP’s Thinkuknow education program offers guidance for both young people and their parents. I encourage everyone to visit www.thinkuknow.co.uk to learn more."