October 2014
Man had sex with schoolgirl after contacting her on Facebook
A man started a sexual relationship with a 15-year-old girl after contacting her through Facebook to congratulate her on the birth of her baby.
Brian Cocker, 27, knew the vulnerable girl, who was living in foster care with her recently-born child, was 15 when he began giving her alcohol and having sex with her.
Cocker was placed on the sex offenders register on Thursday after he admitted having unlawful sexual intercourse with the teenager over several months.
Perth Sheriff Court was told that Cocker continued to see the girl after being warned off by her mother and later confessed to “being in love” with the girl.
Fiscal depute Rebecca Kynaston said it was only when the girl moved to a new home that the distance from Cocker meant she felt able to report him to the police.
Cocker, Galvelmore Street, Crieff, admitted having unlawful sexual intercourse with a child aged 15 between March 1 and June 30, 2012.
It is understood the girl, who cannot be named for legal reasons, had a baby around three months beforehand.
Mrs Kynaston said: “The accused was 25 years old and was having this relationship with a 15-year-old girl. He had met her through her ex-boyfriend and was aware of her age throughout.
“The accused made the initial contact. She had just had a baby with her then boyfriend. She was living in foster care with her child. It’s fair to say she was in a vulnerable position given her age and where she was living.
“He first contacted her on Facebook, congratulating her on the recent birth of her child. The accused asked her age and she confirmed she was 15.
“Shortly after she attended his flat and they both consumed alcohol and began kissing. Sexual intercourse occurred within the living room.
“The sexual intercourse was consensual and afterwards they sat chatting and watching a film. He continued to see her throughout April, despite contact from her mother stating he should stay away.
“He responded by stating he had feelings for her. Until June they continued to meet frequently, drink alcohol, and have sex. She moved to Perth and the distance between them seemed to end the relationship.
“In November and December he contacted her on Facebook and stated he was in love with her and wanted her back. It was only after putting distance between them that the complainer was able to contact the police.”
Cocker told the police the girl had given her consent and that he was fully aware she was under age. He told officers: “I feel stupid and embarrassed.”
Sheriff Michael Fletcher deferred sentence on Cocker for the preparation of reports and added his details to the sex offenders register.
