In 2021, paedophile hunters apprehended a pervert who arrived at a supermarket with the intention of engaging in sexual intercourse with a 13-year-old girl.
Steven Penman, 52, enquired whether he could become her boyfriend from the youngster, who was actually an adult decoy who was masquerading as a schoolgirl named “Jessie.”
After pleading guilty to the offence of sending sexual images and messages to an individual whom he believed to be a child, the beast was confined to a cage for a year.
Penman contacted the impersonator on approximately June 14, 2017, as reported by Falkirk Sheriff Court.
He referred to her as “gorgeous” and responded that it was acceptable when she repeatedly informed him that she was only 13 years old.
Penman sent the decoy a photograph of his erect decoy, expressed his desire to engage in oral sex with her, and recommended that she perform a sex act on herself.
Mrs Alex Kirk, the prosecutor, stated, “He requested a photograph of Jessie, and he was provided with an image that clearly depicts a young, dark-haired female.”
He enquired about her desire to wear hosiery for him and enquired whether she desired him as a boyfriend.
“He enquired about her breast size, whether she had ever touched a boy’s private parts, and whether she would allow him to inspect her bra.”
He had scheduled a meeting with her at an Asda in Stenhousemuir; however, he was met with paedo hunters from the organisation “Hope – Hunting Online Predators Everyday.”
They informed Penman that he would not be meeting “Jessie” and live-streamed the confrontation on Facebook before contacting the police, who arrested him.
Penman was incarcerated for 12 months by Sheriff William Gilchrist, with an additional two-year extension, during which he may be recalled to prison if he commits another offence.
The sheriff stated, “The charge of arranging to meet an individual whom you believed to be 13 years old with the intention of engaging in unlawful sexual activity is very serious and, in my opinion, warrants a custodial sentence.”
Penman maintained an expressionless demeanour as he was escorted to the cells.
For the latest updates and offender details, follow us on the Offender Register Facebook Page. If you or anyone you know has been affected by the individuals highlighted on this website, please report them to the Police on 101 (999 in an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details on how to report a crime. You can also report to Crimestoppers if you wish to remain completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.