DETECTIVES from the PSNI’s Public Protection Branch have welcomed a sentence handed down to a 32-year-old Belfast man who pleaded guilty to sexual activity with a child.

Ciaran James McAuley received a custodial sentence of six years and three months at Belfast Crown Court today for offences including adult causing or inciting a child between 13 and 16 to engage in sexual activity; sexual activity by an adult with a child between 13 and 16, and breach of a Sexual Offences Prevention Order. 

After sentencing today, investigating officer Detective Constable Grant said: “This was a terrifying ordeal the victim endured, which occurred as he was walking along the Ormeau Road on Friday, June 21, 2019.

“The fear and terror he must have felt is unimaginable, and I want to thank him for having the courage to report what happened.

“He has been incredibly brave and shown tremendous resilience following what was an extremely traumatic ordeal. 

“Our detectives in Public Protection Branch are committed to investigating all reports of sexual offences against children and young people.

“We will seek to place offenders before the courts so they can be made amenable for their crimes. 

“I would continue to encourage anyone who has experienced any form of  sexual abuse to contact police on 101. 

“You will be listened to and you will be supported by experienced officers and staff.”