A Scottish man has been jailed for committing sexual offences against an underage girl from the North East after grooming her on TikTok. Dylan McBean-Kyle met the girl on the social media site and lied about his age, a court heard.
Following online conversations, the 26-year-old travelled to the Sunderland area and committed a number of sexual offences against the teenage girl. As a result of his abuse, the victim continues to suffer psychological issues and has had to undergo therapy.
Court sentencing
On Thursday, McBean-Kyle, of Baird Avenue, Kilwinning, Scotland, appeared at Newcastle Crown Court via link from HMP Durham to be sentenced for six counts of engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a girl; engaging in non-penetrative sexual activity with a girl; inciting a girl to engage in sexual activity; engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child; and meeting a girl under 16 years of age following grooming. He had pleaded guilty to the offences.
The court heard that McBean-Kyle had met the girl on TikTok before meeting up and committing the sexual offences. After the girl's mother became concerned, he was arrested but committed further offences while on bail.
Victim impact and defence
In a statement read out to the court, the victim said McBean-Kyle's abuse had a "dramatic impact" on her life and left her with psychological issues. She said: "I can only feel hatred for what he has done to me. I hope he understands the hurt he has caused me."
Jason Smith, defending, said McBean-Kyle has "difficulties" including social anxiety and communication issues. The court heard that McBean-Kyle may be on the autistic spectrum, but no formal diagnosis has yet been made.
Sentence
Recorder Mark Giuliani said: "Women and girls need to be treated with respect. You did anything but."
McBean-Kyle was jailed for three years and four months and will be on the sex offenders' register for life. A 10-year sexual harm prevention order was also imposed.
