Sent indecent Snapchat photos to teenage girls.

A 26-year-old man who sent indecent images of himself to girls under 16 through Snapchat has avoided a jail sentence.

Robert Shewan Groat, of South Road, Lerwick, was instead ordered to carry out 150 hours of unpaid work as part of an 18-month community payback order. He will also remain on the sex offenders register for the duration of the order.

Groat pleaded guilty to sending the images to four girls between the ages of 13 and 15. He admitted intentionally causing them to view sexual images of himself naked or wearing only underwear, and pictures of his genitalia. These incidents occurred between July 1st and August 16th, 2014.

He also admitted causing a 16-year-old girl to view a sexual image of himself wearing underwear and with himself exposed between August 1st and 31st, 2014.

The offending began after one of the girls added Groat on Snapchat to communicate with him about a rowing team he was starting. The incidents took place in Bressay and other locations in the isles.

Sheriff Philip Mann, while acknowledging the seriousness of the offenses, considered Groat's status as a first offender and his cooperation with the court. He was persuaded that a community-based sentence was appropriate.

Defense agent Tommy Allan highlighted Groat's full cooperation, early contact with the families of the complainers, and apologies tendered. He emphasized Groat's low risk of re-offending and his immaturity for his age. He also acknowledged the significant impact the case would have on Groat's life, particularly his need to rebuild and move on.

Sheriff Mann emphasized the severity of Groat's actions, stating that "it was quite unacceptable to subject these young girls to the photographs you sent to them via Snapchat." He stressed the seriousness of Groat taking advantage of the girls' innocent intentions, regardless of any potential intoxication.