ARBROATH MAN ZAC WELCH FACES JAIL OVER SEX WITH 14-YEAR-OLD IN FIFE

In a serious criminal case that has garnered significant attention, Zac Welch, a 25-year-old resident of Arbroath, is facing potential imprisonment after admitting to engaging in sexual activity with a minor. The incident took place in Fife, following a social gathering, and has raised concerns about the safety and protection of minors in the community.

According to court proceedings held at Kirkcaldy Sheriff Court on a recent Tuesday, Welch pleaded guilty to having unprotected sex with a 14-year-old girl on June 4, 2011. The details of the case were outlined by depute fiscal Dana Forbes, who explained that the incident occurred after most guests had left a party in Fife, leaving only a small group of individuals present. Among those remaining were Welch, the young girl, her older sister, and another male attendee.

Ms. Forbes described how, shortly after the other guests had departed, the girl and her sister went to separate bedrooms. Approximately 15 minutes later, Welch approached the other male and indicated his intention to speak with the girl. It was then that the girl was awakened by Welch, who tapped her on the shoulder and kissed her. Following this, Welch proceeded to pull down her pyjama trousers, an act that marked the beginning of the sexual encounter.

The girl, in her statement to police, questioned Welch about his intentions, asking if he was some kind of prostitute. Welch responded with confusion, prompting her to clarify her meaning: “When an older person has sex with a younger person.” Despite her question, Welch fully removed her pyjama bottoms and engaged in sexual intercourse with her, notably without using a condom. The court was informed that when the girl’s sister and the other male entered the bedroom, they saw Welch with his trousers around his ankles and his belt undone, indicating the sexual activity had just occurred.

The following morning, Welch was interviewed by police. During the interview, he denied any sexual contact with the girl. However, forensic evidence, including DNA analysis, contradicted his claims. Swabs taken from Welch revealed his DNA on the victim, establishing a clear link to the incident. The girl also confided in police that she had harbored a crush on Welch and that his actions made her feel special, adding a layer of emotional complexity to the case. Fortunately, the sexual activity did not result in pregnancy.

Welch’s legal representative, solicitor David Cranston, stated that his client had pleaded guilty once the DNA evidence was presented, acknowledging the seriousness of the situation. The court, presided over by Sheriff Hendry, decided to defer sentencing until March to allow for reports to be prepared. Sheriff Hendry issued a stern warning to Welch, emphasizing that custody remained a very real possibility, and subsequently released him on bail pending the sentencing hearing.