Brandyn Hampson, 22, of Beechbank Avenue, Airdrie, was placed on the sex offenders' register after admitting a string of charges including unlawful sex with a 14-year-old girl, communicating indecently with children, and threatening to disclose intimate images. He also admitted attempting to pervert the course of justice by instructing one of the girls to lie and threatening to hurt her if she attended court.
Fake driving licence used to deceive
Hampson told the girl he was 17 when he was two years older. Her family became suspicious about his age, but he showed her a driving licence that claimed he was 17. When police searched his home, they found a counterfeit driving licence in the name of 'Brandon Dior' stating he was 17.
Annette Ward, prosecuting, said Hampson met the first girl on social media in August 2022. She later told her family they had sex at least five times in a wooded area near a school in Airdrie.
Threats to share intimate images
Hampson persuaded the girl to send him naked photos and sent pictures of himself in return. When she stopped contacting him, he texted one of her friends: 'If she doesn't message me by Monday I'll send her pics everywhere. I promise.' In a message to the girl he added: 'Let's talk. Don't make me do things I would regret.'
In February 2024, Hampson began messaging another 14-year-old girl. By this time he was 20 but still claimed to be 17. They exchanged intimate photos and videos before Hampson was arrested in October 2024.
Attempt to pervert justice
After being released on bail following an initial court appearance in January last year, Hampson pressured the girl to lie to authorities, telling her he would 'leak' the photos and videos if the case went ahead. He also told her he wanted to have sex with her.
Hampson appeared in court with no previous convictions. Defence advocate Amy Hunter produced references, including one from his employer, saying: 'These references are in stark contrast to what has been narrated today. He was an immature young man who suffered adverse childhood experiences, but is now described as respectful, courteous and cooperative. He demonstrates honesty and maturity, and is hard-working and willing to assist others. The way he behaved was not acceptable and he understands the impact his actions would have had on the complainers.'
Hunter suggested Hampson 'would benefit from education rather than imprisonment'. Sheriff Tony McGlennan deferred sentence until September for background reports and a risk assessment, continuing bail but telling Hampson: 'A custodial sentence will be high on the court's mind. Offending of this nature against young women must be something that the court acts to deter strongly.'
