Man Jailed After Sexual Encounter with Vulnerable Child in Fast-Food Restaurant Toilet
A man has been placed on the sex offenders register following a disturbing incident where he was caught engaging in sexual activity with a vulnerable 13-year-old girl within the confines of a disabled toilet at a McDonald's restaurant in Edinburgh. James Hateley, aged 30, pleaded guilty to the charge of engaging in sexual activity with the child, marking a severe breach of trust and legal boundaries.
Details of the Disturbing Encounter in Edinburgh City Centre
The court heard that the incident unfolded in the early hours of May 29, 2022, at the McDonald's located on London Road in Edinburgh city centre. Prior to the sexual encounter, Hateley and the young girl were observed holding hands and kissing on the lips while seated together in a booth within the restaurant. This public display of affection preceded their entry into the disabled toilet, where the illegal activity took place.
The vulnerable teenager had left her supported accommodation without permission on the evening of May 28, 2022, leading to police being alerted to her disappearance. She subsequently met Hateley on Princes Street, and the pair spent the night walking around the city centre. Hateley attempted to rent a hotel room but was unsuccessful, ultimately leading them to the fast-food outlet.
Court Proceedings and Legal Consequences
During the court proceedings, it was revealed that once inside the disabled toilet, Hateley removed the girl's clothing, touched her body, and engaged in sexual intercourse. The following day, the child returned to her residential unit and disclosed the events to police during an interview, which led to Hateley's arrest.
Sheriff Julius Komorowski remanded Hateley in custody and added his name to the sex offenders register on an interim basis. Additionally, Hateley admitted to failing to appear at a court hearing on March 12 of the previous year. His sentencing has been deferred to next month, pending the availability of a social work report, and his name will be forwarded to Scottish Ministers for consideration of being barred from working with children and vulnerable adults in the future.
Prosecution's Account of the Events
Chelsea Martin, prosecuting, provided a detailed account to the court, describing how the pair were "cuddled up together within a booth, holding hands and kissing each other on the lips" before checking for an available disabled toilet. Once inside, they locked the door, continued kissing, and the girl removed her joggers and trainers, leading to the sexual activity.
After the encounter, the child went to the ladies toilet, and Hateley, who is from Tranent in East Lothian, left the restaurant shortly afterwards. The police eventually traced the young girl, and her disclosure during the interview was crucial in building the case against Hateley.
This case highlights serious concerns about child protection and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals in public spaces. The legal system's response, including the sex offenders register and potential work bans, underscores the gravity of such offences in safeguarding communities.
