Offender (32) had sex with 14-year-old girl in Forth Valley area

Matthew Kelsey appeared at Falkirk Sheriff Court yesterday and was sentenced to three years and five months after admitting his sexual crimes.

Last year Kelsey – claiming to be 19-years-old – befriended the 14-year-old girl online and actively groomed her – subsequently travelling from Hull up to Scotland on several occasions when he engaged in sexual activity with her.

Detective Sergeant Craig Faulds, of Forth Valley Public Protection Unit, welcomed the prison sentence.

He said: “The horrific crimes which Kelsey committed against this young and vulnerable girl will live with her forever. I would like to commend her courage and composure throughout the investigation.

“Kelsey is a danger to young people and we welcome the sentence and his placement on the sex offenders register, which means he will be subject to monitoring and supervision.”