KIERAN AUSTIN FROM EARLSTON ESCAPES PRISON AFTER SEX WITH 14-YEAR-OLD AT SCOTT'S VIEW IN BORDERS

In a case that has drawn significant attention in the Borders region, Kieran Austin, a 22-year-old man from Earlston, was involved in a serious criminal matter concerning underage sexual activity. The incident took place at a well-known scenic spot called Scott's View, located in the Borders, where Austin engaged in sexual acts with a 14-year-old girl in April 2014.

According to court records, Austin pleaded guilty to having sexual intercourse with the 14-year-old girl at Scott's View. This plea was entered on indictment, meaning he admitted to the charges formally brought against him. However, he maintained a not guilty plea regarding an additional charge involving a different girl, a 13-year-old friend of the first victim, which was alleged to have occurred at his residence in Fansloanend. The Crown accepted his plea of not guilty to this second charge, leading to a separate legal consideration.

The proceedings took place at Jedburgh Sheriff Court, where it was revealed that Austin was 19 years old at the time of the offences. The court was informed that Austin was employed in the family coach hire business, a detail that added context to his background. The Procurator Fiscal, Graham Fraser, provided a detailed account of Austin's interactions with the two schoolgirls. He explained that Austin had befriended the girls, often driving them around in his car to visit fast food outlets in Edinburgh during the Easter holidays. These outings involved the girls traveling with him for several days, with the girls being dropped off at their respective homes afterward.

On the evening of the incident, the girls met with Austin, and they spent the evening traveling together. The second girl left at 9 pm, leaving Austin alone with the 14-year-old girl. The pair then drove to Scott's View, a popular scenic location, where they began to kiss. The situation escalated as they engaged in consensual sexual activity, with the girl removing her clothing and Austin lying on top of her. The court heard that Austin urged the girl not to disclose their encounter, aware of her age, and that she was very cooperative during the incident.

Despite the consensual nature of the act, concerns were raised about the risks involved. The girl confided in her friend about their unprotected sex, which posed a risk of sexually transmitted diseases. This disclosure prompted her to visit a clinic, where the authorities were subsequently alerted, leading to Austin being traced and identified as the individual involved.

During the court proceedings, Austin's legal representative argued that he was aware the girl was underage and that she was still in school, but he did not inquire about her exact age. The defense emphasized that there was no evidence of force or coercion, asserting that the sexual activity was entirely consensual. The court acknowledged the seriousness of the matter but also noted that Austin had taken responsibility for his actions.

In sentencing, Sheriff Peter Paterson imposed a community payback order, which included 30 months of supervision and 200 hours of unpaid work. Additionally, Austin was placed on the Sex Offender Register for a period of 30 months. The court's decision reflected the gravity of the offence but also considered Austin's acknowledgment of his misconduct and cooperation with authorities.

This case highlights ongoing concerns about the exploitation of minors and the importance of strict legal measures to address such offences. The community and legal authorities continue to monitor and respond to cases involving underage sexual activity, emphasizing the need for vigilance and appropriate sentencing to protect vulnerable individuals.