ABERDEEN MAN OFFERED TO BUY CHILD VAPES – THEN SEXUALLY ASSAULTED HER
A man has been put on the register for 10 years after offering to buy a 15-year-old girl vapes and then sexually assaulting her.Jack Joiner Smith approached the child as she socialised with friends in Aberdeen city centre and offered to buy them the age-restricted products.
The girl and another youngster agreed and walked with Smith, 30, towards Union Street.
However, Smith began to make comments about the child’s breasts before reaching out and stroking them, leaving her “shocked and alarmed”.
Fiscal depute David Rogers told Aberdeen Sheriff Court the incident happened around 5pm on September 14 last year.
He said: “The complainer and another were within Aberdeen city centre socialising with friends when they were approached by the accused who offered to buy them vapes.
Sex assault victim ‘shocked and alarmed’ “They accepted the accused’s proposal and walked with him towards Union Street.
“While walking, the accused made remarks about the complainer’s clothing and commented on her breasts which made her feel uncomfortable.
“Whilst walking past the Royal Bank of Scotland on Union Street, the accused leaned over to her and stroked her across her breasts, above her clothing.” Despite being “shocked and alarmed” by the sexual assault, the girl continued with Smith towards Poundland where he purchased vapes as agreed.
On walking back towards St Nicholas Street, she approached police officers and advised them of what happened.
Officers then arrested Smith, who was still standing nearby.
Sentencing and outcome Smith was sentenced to 18 months in prison, backdated to September 15 when he was first remanded.
He was also made subject to the notification requirements of the Sexual Offences Act for 10 years.
The court noted his lengthy previous record for similar offenses, leading to the prison term, which reflects the gravity of his actions and the concern over his record.
