Today, Friday 26th May, a 42 year old man from the Lisburn area was sentenced at Craigavon Crown Court for sexual activity with a child aged between 13 and 16 and inciting sexual activity with a child aged between 13 and 16.

Michael Beattie has been sentenced to four years. He will serve two years in prison and two years on license. He will be placed on the Sex Offenders Register indefinitely  and will be subjected to a Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO) for seven years.

Detective Constable Elaine Murray said: “Beattie took advantage of this young girl and manipulated her for his own sexual gratifications.

“We would like to acknowledge the courage this young girl has had to speak up and aide our investigation.

“If you have ever been subjected to any form of sexual abuse or are concerned about someone else please contact 101 or 999 in cases of emergency.

“We care, we will listen and we will act to keep you and other safe.”