Man pleads guilty to sexual offences which happened in Scotland and Thailand

A 61-year-old man has pled guilty to the serious sexual assault of a child and possession of indecent images of children.

Ian Heddle, originally from Dunfermline, pled guilty at the High Court in Glasgow today, Tuesday, 11 June, 2024.

Heddle, who lives in Thailand, was arrested and charged in Scotland in connection with possessing indecent images of children on Sunday, 19 February, 2023.

Following enquiries it was established that he had also sexually assaulted the young girl in Thailand. He was arrested and charged for this offence on Saturday, 23 September, 2023.

Detective Inspector Adrian Ure of National Child Abuse Investigations Unit said: “We understand how distressing this has been for the girl and her family. We hope that the knowledge that he has now pled guilty will at least provide some comfort to them.

“Police Scotland is committed to protecting children and were able to pursue Heddle under legislation which protects children anywhere in the world from sexual abuse by British nationals.

“We will continue to relentlessly pursue, and proactively investigate, individuals who carry out these heinous crimes. I would also like to reassure our communities that we will investigate all reports of sexual abuse. You will be listened to, and we will support you.

“I urge anyone who has been the victim of any offence of this nature to contact us on 101 or 999 in an emergency.”