DUMFRIES MAN DAVID NICOL CAUGHT IN CHILD SEX OFFENDER SCANDAL

A serious criminal case has unfolded involving David Nicol, a resident of Dumfries, who engaged in disturbing online behavior targeting what he believed was a minor girl. The incident came to light when members of an online vigilante group, known as 'Keeping Our Kids Safe,' uncovered Nicol’s intentions through a carefully planned sting operation at Dumfries train station.

On January 14, 2018, Nicol, aged 31, had arranged to meet what he thought was a young girl under 16. Unbeknownst to him, the individual he was communicating with was actually an adult female member of the vigilante group, who had been monitoring his online activity. Over a period of more than two months, Nicol persistently sent messages of a sexual nature to what he believed was a minor, including explicit messages and images. His communications included an indecent photograph of his private parts, which he sent on January 2, and explicit messages aimed at establishing a meeting with the intent of engaging in unlawful sexual activity.

When Nicol arrived at Dumfries train station, he was met by members of the vigilante group who had set a trap. The group’s intervention prevented any illegal activity from taking place. Following his arrest, Nicol was brought before Dumfries sheriff court, where evidence including photographs and chat logs was presented. One of the images shown was of Nicol during his court appearance, highlighting the seriousness of the case.

During the court proceedings, Nicol admitted to the charges, acknowledging that he had repeatedly attempted to communicate with someone he believed was a minor girl. His actions have led to significant legal consequences. He has been placed on the sex offenders' register, which will require him to register his details with authorities. Additionally, he will be under supervision for a period of two years and is prohibited from being alone with anyone under the age of 17. As part of his sentencing, Nicol has also been banned from accessing certain websites that could facilitate similar behavior.

Police officials have issued a strong warning to the public, urging anyone who suspects child abuse or inappropriate online activity to report it immediately. They emphasized that citizens should not attempt to take the law into their own hands but instead utilize established channels such as the sex offender disclosure scheme to raise concerns. The authorities reiterated their commitment to protecting children and preventing such disturbing cases from occurring in the future.