MATTHEW BENISON EX-COACH FROM EAST LINTON SENTENCED FOR SEX OFFENSES INVOLVING CHILD

In a serious case that has shocked the community of East Linton, a former youth football coach has been sentenced after admitting to disturbing sexual misconduct involving a minor. The individual, identified as Matthew Benison, who previously coached at Haddington Athletic FC, was found guilty of multiple offenses related to the exploitation of a young girl.

According to court records, Benison engaged in a series of inappropriate and illegal activities during 2017. He sent explicit images of his genitals, along with videos of himself performing a solo sexual act, from his residence at Stories Park, East Linton. These disturbing images were directed towards a young girl, whom he also solicited to send him nude photographs. The court heard that Benison repeatedly asked the girl to meet him in person for sexual activities, with the intent of engaging in such acts at his home.

The case came before Edinburgh Sheriff Court in January, where Benison, aged 34, pleaded guilty to four separate charges. These charges included sending explicit images and videos of himself performing a sexual act to a minor, requesting nude images from the girl, and attempting to arrange meetings for sexual encounters. The offenses spanned from September 1 to December 1, 2017, at his East Linton address. Further, between December 2, 2017, and June 25 of the following year, he continued to send explicit content and ask for nude photographs, maintaining contact with the young girl.

On Monday, Sheriff Frank Crowe delivered the sentence, which included placing Benison on the sex offenders’ register for a period of 12 months. Additionally, he was subjected to a supervision order for the same duration, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his conduct. As part of his punishment, Benison was also ordered to complete 65 hours of unpaid community service, emphasizing the court’s stance on rehabilitation and accountability.

This case highlights the dangers of online exploitation and the importance of safeguarding minors from predators. The community of East Linton and surrounding areas are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to authorities to prevent similar incidents in the future.