Demanding justice for son William is my duty
Mum of teen who took his life in custody meets with Solicitor General
THE mother of a teenager who took his own life in a custody cell has said it is her duty to “cry out for justice for her son”.
William Brown – also known as William Lindsay – died at Polmont Young Offenders’ Institution on October 7, 2018, aged 16, days after being sent there on remand.
His mother Christine Lindsay, brother John Reilly and lawyer Aamer Anwar met with the new Solicitor General Ruth Charteris QC in Glasgow yesterday.
The Crown Office said in September 2019 that it would not bring charges against the Scottish Prison Service (SPS) over his death. Last year, Anwar’s office, assisted by Dorothy Bain QC, who subsequently took up the post of Lord Advocate in June, presented a victim’s right to review arguing the SPS must be held accountable.
A statement issued by Anwar on behalf of the family after Monday’s meeting said: “The Solicitor General’s genuine compassion and empathy was welcomed as was her apology at the unacceptable length of time taken by Crown Office in trying to take a decision.
“A civilised society is judged by the manner in which we treat our vulnerable, the weak, the dispossessed and our prisoners. We believe Scotland is failing the test.
“There was nothing inevitable about William Lindsay taking his own life.
“Christine says her son’s cries can no longer be heard but as his mother, it is her duty to cry out for justice for her son.”
Charteris said: “I wish to express my gratitude to William’s mother and brother for meeting with me. I listened carefully to what they had to say about their experience and provided an update on the steps now being taken to progress the investigation into William’s death.”
The Scottish Prison Service has been asked for comment.