SHANAN RODGER FROM ROTHESAY CAUGHT IN DISTURBING ONLINE PREDATION ON A BUTE SCHOOLGIRL

In March 2019, a disturbing case emerged involving a man from Rothesay, a prominent town on the Isle of Bute, who engaged in inappropriate and predatory behavior towards a 15-year-old girl. The individual, identified as Shanan Rodger, was involved in a series of concerning online communications that included requests for explicit images and the sharing of indecent material.

Rodger, aged 27, initiated contact with the young girl through digital messaging platforms, where he persistently begged her to send photographs of herself in a bikini. His messages were laced with inappropriate references, including a crude remark about him “pitching a tent” under his duvet, a phrase he used to imply he was experiencing an erection. This comment was made after he claimed to have seen part of her breast during a swimming trip, further emphasizing his inappropriate interest.

The prosecutor, Lindy Scaife, outlined the severity of the case during proceedings at Greenock Sheriff Court. She explained that the girl interpreted Rodger’s comment as an indication that he was sexually aroused. The young girl confided in a school counselor about the messages, which prompted her to involve the police. Although she was initially reluctant to speak about the incident, the police investigation led to Rodger’s arrest. During questioning, he admitted to the messages, claiming he was “just taking the mick,” a phrase suggesting he was joking or not serious.

Rodger, of Ladeside Place in Rothesay, pleaded guilty to charges of communicating indecently with a child for the purpose of sexual gratification, as well as causing her humiliation, distress, and alarm. The offenses occurred between August 1 and September 18 of the previous year, highlighting a period of predatory behavior.

In sentencing, Sheriff Andrew McIntyre emphasized the importance of protecting children from such harmful activities. He stated, “It is important that children are protected from all forms of such activity. It is important to ensure that any risk you pose is addressed to the greatest possible extent.”

As part of his sentence, Rodger will be under supervision for three years. Additionally, he is required to complete 160 hours of unpaid community service within nine months. He is also prohibited from having any unsupervised contact with children under 16, and he must make any internet-enabled device available for inspection. Furthermore, he is barred from downloading software that could erase his browsing history, ensuring transparency and accountability in his online activities.