CRAIG MCKAY FROM ABERDEEN SENTENCED FOR GROOMING AND ABUSE IN ENGLAND

A man from Aberdeen with a disturbing history of predatory behavior has been formally sentenced to a lengthy prison term after a series of heinous crimes involving a teenage girl in England. Craig McKay, aged 56, faced multiple serious charges related to his grooming and sexual abuse of a minor, culminating in a guilty plea that has resulted in a significant custodial sentence.

McKay was charged with 14 counts, including engaging in sexual communication with a child, inciting sexual activity, committing sexual acts in the presence of a minor, and possessing indecent images of a child. The victim, a young girl whom McKay met on the social media platform Tumblr when she was only 14 years old, was subjected to a prolonged grooming process. Over an extended period, McKay manipulated her emotionally, convincing her that he loved her and would care for her, thereby establishing a false sense of trust and safety.

To reinforce this illusion of security, McKay sent her money and lavish gifts, further entrenching her dependence on him. As she reached the age of 15, McKay made multiple trips from Aberdeen to Plymouth, where the girl resided, during which he committed sexual assault in his vehicle. His abusive conduct persisted over several years, causing immense trauma to the victim. It was only after she finally severed contact that she was able to escape his influence. Despite her withdrawal, McKay continued to pursue her through persistent messages, handwritten letters, and gifts sent through the mail. He even traveled again to Plymouth in an attempt to see her face-to-face, demonstrating his continued obsession and predatory intent.

Following a joint investigation involving Police Scotland and authorities in England, law enforcement officials acted swiftly. Evidence was collected from McKay’s residence in Aberdeen, leading to his arrest. During the legal proceedings, McKay pleaded guilty to all charges, acknowledging his guilt. The case was brought before Exeter Crown Court, where he was sentenced to ten years in prison. The sentence comprises nine years of imprisonment, with an additional year on extended license to ensure public protection. Furthermore, McKay was subjected to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and an indefinite restraining order, both measures designed to prevent any future offenses and protect potential victims.

Authorities, including Inspector Christopher Kinski and Detective Inspector Ryan Morris, publicly commended the bravery of the victim, emphasizing her courage in coming forward. Inspector Kinski described McKay as a “calculated predator who preyed on the victim’s age to fulfill his sexual desires on a child.” He further stated, “I have no doubt that if it wasn’t for the victim having the strength to tell us her story, McKay would have offended again – on many more children.”

The successful prosecution was made possible through diligent police work, which uncovered the extent of McKay’s offending. The sentence aims not only to punish him but also to serve as a safeguard for the community, preventing him from harming others in the future.