Man faces 'internet' rape charge

The man appeared in private at Perth Sheriff Court

A 45-year-old man has appeared in court in Perth in connection with the abduction and rape of a 15-year-old girl he allegedly met over the internet.

Phillip Bugler, from Lancashire, is accused of committing the offences in Scotland on 4 August.

Mr Bugler is alleged to have driven from his north of England home to central Scotland to meet up with the schoolgirl.

It is alleged he had already spoken to her over the internet.

The court heard that after he had persuaded the girl to get into his car in St Fillans, in Perthshire, he locked the doors and threatened her with violence if she attempted to escape.

Released on bail

Mr Bugler, who is married with a child, is then alleged to have driven the girl 30 miles to a hotel in Falkirk and locked her in a room.

He is charged with raping and attempting to rape her in the room over a 24-hour period.

Mr Bugler appeared in private at Perth Sheriff Court on Monday.

He made no plea and has been released on bail while the case is continued for further examination.