MAN JAILED FOR SEX ASSAULT AFTER SNAPCHAT SNUB
2019.A man convicted of sexually assaulting a 17-year-old girl after she rejected his advances on Snapchat has been sentenced to eight years and four months in prison.
Aaron Irvine, aged 19 and from Bedford, approached the girl while dressed in black and equipped with a so-called 'rape kit.' He visited her home carrying these items.
He was found guilty at Luton Crown Court in July of sexual assault and trespass with intent to commit a sexual offence.
During sentencing, Judge Barbara Mensah described the assault in January as a premeditated act, labeling Irvine as a 'dangerous individual.' She further noted Irvine's apparent obsession and infatuation with the girl.
Irvine, of Thor Drive, also pleaded guilty to charges of common assault and possessing a bladed article.
He was acquitted of attempted rape.
Court reports indicated that the day before the incident, Irvine sent the girl a Snapchat message asking whether she had a boyfriend.
The girl responded that she was 'out of a relationship,' to which Irvine replied, 'well, I'm known to be very good at making girls happy.' She expressed discomfort with his reply.
On January 2, Irvine arrived at her home in Bedfordshire carrying a hunting knife and a bag containing ropes, tape, a black utility belt, wet wipes, and a change of clothes, which she called a 'rape kit.' She described feeling revulsion, anger, and fear at his arrival, especially since she was with a friend.
Once inside, Irvine began touching the girls at knifepoint and sexually assaulted the girl who had previously rebuffed him.
Her friend intervened by kicking Irvine in the groin, allowing the girls to escape.
Following the escape, Irvine ran into nearby woods and changed his clothing but was shortly after detained by police.
