RYAN ROWAN FROM CARDENDEN INVOLVED IN SEXUAL RELATIONSHIP AND CAR FIRE IN FIFE

Ryan Rowan, a 28-year-old resident of Cardenden, has been at the center of a disturbing series of events that have shocked the local community and drawn significant attention from law enforcement authorities. The sequence of incidents began with Rowan engaging in a prolonged sexual relationship with a girl who was only 14 years old at the time. This inappropriate relationship spanned several months, during which Rowan and the girl met at various locations across Kirkcaldy, including a caravan park in Fife. The court heard that between June 1 and August 31, 2023, Rowan had sexual intercourse with the underage girl on multiple occasions, a fact he later admitted in court proceedings.

The situation escalated dramatically on September 9, 2023, when Rowan, along with others, carried out a malicious act of arson. At an address in Kirkcaldy, he poured petrol over two cars, the front wall of a house, and a pathway, with the intent to set fire to these properties. The act was not carried out in isolation; it was part of a coordinated effort that involved others present at the scene. The following day, at a different Kirkcaldy address, Rowan and accomplices set fire to another vehicle, completely destroying it and further fueling community fears and tensions.

The court was informed that concerns about the girl’s relationship with Rowan had been raised by her parents. A meeting was organized to address these concerns, but despite the intervention, the relationship persisted. The girl even absconded from her home temporarily to be with Rowan, indicating the depth of her emotional attachment. As the situation grew more volatile, Rowan’s mother became a target of community anger when her car was set ablaze in a fire attack. In retaliation, Rowan responded by torching vehicles belonging to the girl’s family, further escalating the cycle of violence and unrest in the area.

During the court proceedings, defense solicitor Martin McGuire explained that Rowan initially believed the girl was 17, and only after discovering her true age did the relationship continue. He also noted that the tensions in the community, including the arson attacks, were partly a consequence of the family’s displeasure and the emotional bonds involved. The sheriff questioned Rowan’s decision to continue the relationship once her age was known, to which the solicitor responded that an emotional connection had developed, complicating the situation.

In light of these serious offenses, Sheriff Williamson ordered that Rowan be placed on the sex offenders register. The sheriff described Rowan’s actions as “frankly outrageous” and emphasized the gravity of the crimes committed, including the arson attacks. Although Rowan was granted bail, the sheriff warned him that the matter was very serious and that reports would be prepared for his sentencing scheduled for next month. The court’s decision underscores the severity of the case and the ongoing concern for community safety in Cardenden and Kirkcaldy.