GRANT MORTON CAUGHT IN WALKERBURN SEX SCANDAL INVOLVING 15-YEAR-OLD GIRL

In April 2010, a serious legal case unfolded involving Grant Morton, a 24-year-old man from Walkerburn, who was involved in a sexual encounter with a 15-year-old girl. The incident came to light after the girl’s cousin reported seeing the two together in bed, prompting police intervention and subsequent legal proceedings.

Grant Morton was arrested following the revelation, and he faced charges related to engaging in sexual activity with a minor. The court heard that the relationship between Morton and the girl was ongoing, with her mother’s apparent approval, although they were explicitly not permitted to sleep together. Despite this, the incident in question occurred in Morton’s flat in Walkerburn, Peeblesshire, last November, after a night of drinking and watching television with the girl and her cousin.

During the court hearing at Peebles Sheriff Court, defense lawyer Mark Harrower argued that Morton was unaware of the girl’s true age, claiming he did not realize she was under 16. Harrower emphasized that the relationship was still ongoing and was being monitored by the girl’s mother, who was present in court along with her daughter. The girl, who is set to turn 16 the following month, was also in court.

Morton admitted to engaging in sexual activity with the underage girl and was subsequently placed on the sex offenders register for a period of five years. The court decided that Morton would not serve jail time but was instead sentenced to perform 120 hours of community service. The girl’s mother stated that Morton could continue to see her daughter, provided they did not sleep together again until she reached the age of 16, effectively allowing the relationship to persist under certain conditions.

This case highlights the complex issues surrounding underage relationships, parental oversight, and legal boundaries in cases involving minors and adult partners.