DAVID PENMAN ARBROATH AND DUNDEE SEX OFFENDER SENTENCED IN KIRKCALDY

In a recent case heard at Kirkcaldy Sheriff Court, David Penman, a 29-year-old man from Queen Street, Arbroath, was convicted of serious sexual offenses involving a 14-year-old girl. The incident took place at an address in Kirkcaldy in February 2022, where Penman engaged in multiple inappropriate and criminal acts against the young teenager.

According to court proceedings, Penman repeatedly kissed the girl on the mouth and made attempts to insert his tongue during their encounter. His actions also included hugging her and touching her leg and arm over her clothing, actions that clearly crossed boundaries of consent and personal safety. The court heard that Penman coerced the teenager into viewing a sexual image, further escalating the severity of his misconduct.

Additionally, Penman engaged in indecent communication with the girl, sending her messages of a sexual nature. He asked her to send a nude photograph of herself and, in a disturbing act, sent her a photograph of his own naked penis. These actions were carried out without her consent and without any reasonable belief that she was willing or aware of such exchanges, constituting serious violations of her rights and safety.

Despite denying the allegations, Penman was found guilty after a trial. He appeared before Sheriff Charles Lugton last week for sentencing. During the hearing, the defence lawyer, Nicholas Whelan, emphasized that Penman, who is employed in a pub, maintains his innocence and disputed the charges.

Sheriff Lugton addressed the court, stating, “It was quite clear to me during the course of the trial, and having considered a letter received this morning, this had a profound impact on the complainer and her family.” The sheriff also noted that the social work report indicated Penman had not shown significant insight or remorse for his actions.

While acknowledging that this was Penman’s first offence of this nature, Sheriff Lugton expressed concern about the potential risk he posed to young women and children. He stated, “I have no doubt this case passes the threshold for custody. However, considering the circumstances and the possibility for rehabilitation, I am inclined to impose a community-based sentence.”

As part of his sentence, Penman was ordered to complete 300 hours of unpaid work, the maximum allowed, and to be placed under offender supervision for three years. He is also required to participate in the “Moving Forward: Making Changes” sex offender rehabilitation programme. Furthermore, he must adhere to strict conduct requirements, including a ban on direct or indirect contact with anyone under 18 without prior approval from his supervising officer.