Court / Teenager sent indecent messages to underage girls
A LERWICK teenager who took advantage of four underage girls by communicating sexually and indecently with them via Snapchat escaped a jail sentence when he appeared at Lerwick Sheriff Court on Wednesday.
Lewis Barclay, of Commercial Road, aged 19, had previously pleaded guilty to four charges, including sending photos of himself in a state of undress and requesting the same from the girls affected, who were all between the age of 13 and 16.
The court had previously heard how Barclay’s requests had made them feel uncomfortable.
The offences took place on various occasions between 1 May last year and 1 January 2020 when Barclay was 17 and 18.
Defence solicitor Tommy Allan said naivety and a lack of maturity had played a major part in his client getting involved in this.
He added that Barclay had already lost his job and “possibly a career” as a direct result of his behaviour.
Sheriff Robert Mcdonald said Barclay should be in no doubt about the seriousness of the offence, something he could go to jail for.
He ordered him to carry out 160 hours of unpaid work and put him under supervision for two years.
The sheriff added that the sentence was imposed as an alternative to custody.
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 440 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.
Support Shetland News