Police have praised the “utmost courage” of a 14-year-old girl during the trial of a “dangerous” sex offender who was found guilty of touching himself within view of her on a bus.

Kevin Andrew Lochhead (57) was today convicted of performing a sex act in public following a two-day trial by Jurats in the Royal Court.

Police commended the teenager involved in the case whose “bravery shows that young people in Jersey will not tolerate indecent behaviour”.

Giving evidence from behind a screen during the trial, the girl said she was sitting on the top deck of the bus with a friend when a man came and sat just behind them, passing a number of other empty seats.

After the friend got off, the teenager said she saw the man masturbating.

She reported the incident to her mother, who then contacted the police.

Advocate Christina Hall, prosecuting, told the court that Mr Lochhead – who has numerous previous convictions for indecent exposure – had a “sexual interest in young girls”. 

“It is the fact that he does it in public that causes the sexual gratification for him,” she added.

Answering questions from Advocate James Bell, defending, Lochhead claimed he sat on the upper deck of a double-decker bus towards the back, because he felt “social shame” due to his previous offending.

Following the conviction, Acting Police Sergeant, Rosanne Mews, said: “The outcome in court accurately reflects the behaviour of Mr Lochhead.

“Mr Lochhead is a dangerous sex offender who has repeatedly shown that he will continue to offend to satisfy his sexual desires towards young people.

“Throughout this trial, the young people involved have demonstrated the utmost courage.

“Their bravery shows that young people in Jersey will not tolerate indecent behaviour.”

She added: “I hope the outcome today shows that the States of Jersey Police will always listen to and investigate allegations of this nature.

“We take allegations of exposure very seriously and will robustly seek prosecution.

“We will support you throughout the process, alongside our partner agencies.”

Lochhead was granted bail until 4 February, when he will be remanded in custody to be sentenced on 24 March.

Commissioner Sir William Bailhache was presiding with Jurats Austin-Vautier and Opferman sitting.

SUPPORT…

Islanders affected by any of the issues raised in this report can contact any of the following:

SARC at Dewberry House provides expert independent and confidential support to victims of sexual abuse. Tel: 01534 888222. 

Jersey Action Against Rape (JAAR) provide and maintain a supporting framework for survivors and their families. Confidential helpline: 01534 482800.

Freeda (formerly Jersey Women’s Refuge) offer help and support for victims of domestic abuse. Tel: 0800 7356836.

Victim Support offer free and confidential advice to victims of crime. Tel: 01534 440496. 

Victims First Jersey is a free and independent service offering confidential support to victims and witnesses of crime. Tel: 0800 7351612. 

Samaritans offer a confidential and non-judgemental listening ear to people who need to talk. Tel: 116 123 free from any phone or 0330 094 5717 (local call charges apply).