Man, 20, jailed for Grangemouth sex crimes after 'strong' victims came forward

Riley Kirk was sentenced to prison at the High Court in Edinburgh on Monday June 30.

He was also placed on the sex offenders register.

Kirk was found guilty at the same court in May for the offences, which included rape and sexual assault, and took place in the addresses in Grangemouth and East Calder in West Lothian.

His offending went as far back as October 2019 when Kirk was only 14 years old and lasted until January 2023 – days before his 18th birthday.

He raped his fourth victim when he was on bail for other offences.

His youngest victim was only 14, another was 16 and two were 17 years old.

Passing sentence, judge Lord Harrower said that victim impact statements from three of the young women explained “the significant effect which your attacks have had on their mental health, their education and employment, and ultimately their hopes for the future”.

The judge added: “I consider that you were an emotionally immature young man at the time of these offences. I have also taken account of the various mental health difficulties from which you claim to have been suffering, although, given your continued denial, it is difficult to say what part these difficulties may have played in your offending.

"None of this excuses your crimes. Nor will it help the young women you have harmed.”

Lord Harrower said the period of time which Kirk will spend in detention for the offences will be shorter than if he were an older man sentenced for the same offences.

He added: “However, I consider that there is an unacceptable risk that, on your release from detention, the standard licence arrangements will be inadequate to protect the public, primarily young women, from serious harm caused by you. I have formed the opinion that you are likely to present such a risk to the public for a number of reasons.

The judge sentenced Kirk to eight years in jail and a further three years on licence when he is released in to the community. Kirk was warned that if he breaks the conditions of his licence at any time he could be returned to jail.

He also made a non-harassment order which bans Kirk from any contact, approach or communication with his victims for an indefinite period of time.

Following the sentencing hearing, Detective Constable Marc Lunn said: "Riley Kirk is now facing the consequences of his abhorrent actions.”

Praising the victims, he added: “This outcome was made possible thanks to the victims who came forward and reported him. I commend them for the strength they have shown during the investigation and court proceedings. Our thoughts remain with them, and I hope this sentencing offers them some comfort as they move forward with their lives.

"I would also like to reassure our communities that we are committed to investigating all reports of sexual crimes and remain determined to bring those responsible to justice. I urge anyone who has been the victim of any offence of this nature to contact us – you will be fully supported by our officers and partner agencies."