SEX ATTACKER SENTENCED TO 8 YEARS FOR ATTACKING TWO CHILDREN IN LANARKSHIRE
A man who sexually assaulted two children after dragging them off the street in Blantyre, in South Lanarkshire, has been jailed for eight years.Regan McClinton followed and attacked both girls in an attempt to rape them in two separate assaults less than 30 minutes apart, on April 22, 2023.
The attacker, 18 years old at the time, was caught on CCTV following the first girl in broad daylight as she walked along Broompark Road.
He grabbed the 15-year-old by her hair and body before dragging her into an alleyway where he took away her phone and assaulted her both physically and sexually until members of the public intervened.
Minutes later, the Blantyre man attacked an 11-year-old girl, severely injuring the child in an attempt to rape her.
McClinton was stopped again by a member of the public who had recognised the attacker and intervened after hearing the girl's screams.
Today, October 30, the now 21-year-old was sentenced to eight years and nine months in prison, which will include a period of six years and nine months in custody with a two-year extended sentence.
The prosecution had presented a variety of evidence including CCTV footage, DNA evidence and eyewitness accounts.
McClinton's name has been added to the sex offenders register indefinitely, and indefinite non-harassment orders have also been granted.
Fiona Kirkby, Procurator Fiscal for High Court Sexual Offences, said: “Regan McClinton subjected both girls to horrific ordeals within minutes of each other and only a short distance apart.
“These children should have been safe going about their business but were instead targeted by this dangerous and opportunistic offender.
“He has now been held accountable following this prosecution, which was made possible using evidence from both children and the members of the public who thankfully interrupted both attacks.
"This type of offending will not be tolerated, and I hope this conviction sends a clear message to those who seek to sexually harm others.
I would urge anyone who has experienced similar crime to report it when you feel ready.
You will be listened to and supported as we use every tool available in seeking justice.”
