Man who dragged girls off street in two rape attempts within minutes jailed

A man who dragged two young girls off the street and sexually assaulted them has been jailed for more than six years.

Regan McClinton attempted to rape the two girls in attacks within 30 minutes of each other in Blantyre, South Lanarkshire, on April 22, 2023.

McClinton, who was 18 at the time and is now 21, was caught on CCTV following the first girl in broad daylight.

He dragged the 15-year-old into an alleyway where he sexually assaulted her, which ended when members of the public intervened.

The attacker then fled the scene but went on to carry out a similar attack on an 11-year-old girl minutes later.

The second victim had been walking with a friend on nearby Burnbrae Road.

Again, the attack ended when a member of the public intervened after hearing screaming.

McClinton was convicted of sexual offences, including the sexual assault of a young child, following a trial at the High Court in Glasgow in September.

At the High Court in Kilmarnock on Thursday, he was sentenced to eight years and nine months.

This will involve a period of six years and nine months in custody with a two-year extended sentence.

His name was also added to the sex offenders register indefinitely.

Fiona Kirkby, procurator fiscal for High Court sexual offences, said: “Regan McClinton subjected both girls to horrific ordeals within minutes of each other and only a short distance apart.

“These children should have been safe going about their business but were instead targeted by this dangerous and opportunistic offender.

“He has now been held accountable following this prosecution, which was made possible using evidence from both children and the members of the public who thankfully interrupted both attacks.

“This type of offending will not be tolerated, and I hope this conviction sends a clear message to those who seek to sexually harm others.

“I would urge anyone who has experienced similar crime to report it when you feel ready.

“You will be listened to and supported as we use every tool available in seeking justice.”