KEIREN SUTHERLAND FROM EDINBURGH SENTENCED FOR CHILD SEX OFFENSES IN SHEFFIELD

In a case that has shocked the community and highlighted the importance of vigilance against sexual predators, Keiren Sutherland, a 29-year-old man with ties to Edinburgh, has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term after a harrowing investigation into his crimes involving a young girl.

Keiren Sutherland was convicted on multiple counts related to the sexual abuse of a five-year-old girl. The charges included two counts of raping a child under the age of 13 and causing the young victim to observe a sexual act. The trial, which took place at Sheffield Crown Court in May of this year, revealed the disturbing details of Sutherland’s actions and the impact they had on the child.

Prior to his conviction, Sutherland had admitted to three counts of making indecent photographs of a child. These images were discovered during a forensic examination of his mobile phone by detectives. The investigation uncovered a secure folder on his device containing the illicit images, which further implicated him in the abuse.

Sutherland, who resides on Warriston Place in Edinburgh and was previously based in Doncaster, was sentenced on Thursday, July 11. The court handed down a total of 25 years in prison. Initially, he was sentenced to 18 years, but the judge later ordered an additional seven years to be served, citing the fact that Sutherland was considered a dangerous offender.

Detective Constable Dani Duncan-Blakley, the lead investigator on the case, expressed her thoughts on the verdict. She emphasized the significance of the victim’s bravery in coming forward, stating, “Sutherland is a dangerous sexual predator who is now rightly where he belongs thanks to the courage of his young victim and her supportive family.”

She further explained, “The girl endured a very traumatic ordeal at a vulnerable and tender age, but she showed remarkable bravery in opening up to her family and then sharing her experience with the police. Without her testimony, Sutherland might never have been brought to justice. It is also important to note that he made his victim and her family endure a court trial, but I am glad the jury saw through his lies and found him guilty of the offences he denied.”

Detective Duncan-Blakley highlighted the complexity of the investigation, describing it as long and challenging. She expressed her satisfaction that justice had been served for the victim and her family, and she encouraged other survivors of sexual assault to come forward. “We are here to listen, understand, and take action,” she said. “We will support you through every stage of the process and ensure your voice is heard.”

In addition to his prison sentence, Sutherland was subjected to a 20-year restraining order, which prohibits him from contacting or approaching his victim. This measure aims to protect the young girl from any further harm and to ensure her safety moving forward.