Teen sexually assaulted young girls after dragging them off street in rape bid

A man who sexually assaulted two young girls after dragging them off the street in a bid to rape them has been jailed for nearly seven years.

Regan McClinton followed and attacked both children within less than 30 minutes of each other in Blantyre, South Lanarkshire, on April 22, 2023.

The then 18-year-old was caught on CCTV following the first girl as she walked on Broompark Road in daylight.

He grabbed the 15-year-old by the hair and body before dragging her into an alleyway, where he took away her mobile phone.

McClinton, of Blantyre, subjected the child to a sexual and physical assault, which ended after members of the public intervened.

After fleeing the scene, and just minutes later, McClinton attacked an 11-year-old girl, who had been walking with a friend on the nearby Burnbrae Road.

He pulled the child into an alleyway, where he physically assaulted and attempted to rape her, all to her severe injury.

A member of the public came to the girl’s aid after hearing screaming and recognised McClinton.

McClinton, now 21, has been sentenced to eight years and nine months. This will involve a period of six years and nine months in custody with a two-year extended sentence.

Fiona Kirkby, procurator fiscal for High Court Sexual Offences, said: “Regan McClinton subjected both girls to horrific ordeals within minutes of each other and only a short distance apart.

“These children should have been safe going about their business, but were instead targeted by this dangerous and opportunistic offender.

“He has now been held accountable following this prosecution, which was made possible using evidence from both children and the members of the public who thankfully interrupted both attacks.

“This type of offending will not be tolerated, and I hope this conviction sends a clear message to those who seek to sexually harm others.

“I would urge anyone who has experienced a similar crime to report it when you feel ready. You will be listened to and supported as we use every tool available in seeking justice.”