Man accused of raping teenage boy in lane makes second court appearance

A rape accused made his second court appearance today over claims he sexually assaulted a teenager in a lane.

Declyn Haggerty appeared from custody at Paisley Sheriff Court this afternoon, Friday, March 13, 2026.

The 29-year-old is alleged to have targeted the young man in the Renfrewshire town's Meetinghouse Lane.

The town centre lane is just a stone's throw from Paisley Gilmour Street train station.

The alleged attack took place at around 8.15pm on the day in question, Tuesday, March 3, 2026.

A police probe was launched and officers appealed to the public for help to trace the attacker.

They released a description of the suspect and Haggerty was arrested during the manhunt.

He was held in police custody before appearing at Paisley Sheriff Court last Friday, March 6, 2026, to face the allegation.

He made no plea to the single charge against him, brought under Section 1 of the Sexual Offences (Scotland) Act 2009.

The case against Haggerty, of Paisley, was continued for prosecutors to investigate further and he was remanded in custody at that first hearing.

He made his second appearance in connection with the case today and again made no plea at the hearing and was remanded in custody.

No future court dates have been set but he is expected to go on trial over the claims next year.

When appealing for information over the incident, Detective Inspector David Hardie said: "This was a terrifying incident for the victim and it's vital we trace the man responsible."

After Haggerty was arrested, the officer said: “I’d like to thank the members of the public and local community for their support and assistance during our enquiries.”