IRVINE MAN JAMES CLARK SENTENCED TO SIX YEARS FOR RAPE OF 12-YEAR-OLD GIRL AND SEXUAL ASSAULT ON WOMAN

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Irvine, James Clark, a 25-year-old man from North Ayrshire, has been sentenced to six years and four months in prison following his conviction for serious sexual offenses committed in April 2016. The incidents involved the rape of a 12-year-old girl and the sexual assault of a 36-year-old woman, both of which took place in Clark's residence in Irvine.

According to court proceedings, Clark engaged in a sexual assault on the young girl shortly after he had assaulted the woman earlier that same day. During the incident with the girl, Clark attempted to justify his actions by telling her, “It’s alright you’re over 16,” despite her being only 12 years old. The girl, for legal reasons, cannot be named publicly, but she lied to Clark, claiming she was 13. Clark responded with a disturbing remark, “Are you. That’s alright then, it’s fine,” indicating a gross disregard for her age and consent.

The girl repeatedly told Clark to stop and get off her, clearly distressed and uncomfortable. Witnesses who saw her shortly after the assault reported that she appeared upset, as if she had been crying, and some noted she seemed intoxicated. The police were promptly called to the scene, and Clark was taken into custody. During police questioning, Clark admitted that the girl had been in his flat but refused to comment further on the sexual activity. Forensic evidence later confirmed Clark’s involvement, as his DNA was found in the girl’s underwear.

At the High Court in Glasgow last month, Clark pleaded guilty to the charge of raping the 12-year-old girl at his home on April 14, 2016. In addition to this, he also admitted to sexually assaulting a 36-year-old woman earlier that day at a house in Irvine. The assault on the woman involved making indecent remarks and physically pinning her against a sofa. Clark was under the influence of alcohol and Diazepam at the time of both offenses, which the court noted as aggravating factors.

Clark is a father of two children and has a criminal history that includes previous convictions for violence. His sentencing was initially deferred by Judge Lady Scott, who ordered reports to be prepared about his character. However, during a subsequent hearing at the High Court in Edinburgh, Judge Lady Scott stated that she had no choice but to impose a prison sentence, reflecting the severity of his crimes.

In the lead-up to sentencing, Clark was remanded in custody and placed on the sex offenders register. The court emphasized the gravity of his actions, especially given the vulnerability of his young victim and the breach of trust involved. The case has drawn significant attention in Irvine and the wider North Ayrshire community, highlighting ongoing concerns about safeguarding and the importance of protecting minors from sexual exploitation and abuse.