Families feel ‘let down by the justice system’

Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson has called for a “root and branch” review of the justice system as she said too many bereaved families were being let down.

Ms Davidson used First Minister’s Questions yesterday to highlight the case of Michelle Stewart, who was murdered in Drongan, Ayrshire, in 2008 at the age of 17.

Her family has received a letter from the Scottish Prisons Service to say her killer John Wilson has been approved for first grant of temporary release, despite a judge making clear he should serve 12 years before he could apply for parole.

Ms Davidson said: “John Wilson was given a life sentence for murdering Michelle, but he won’t serve life in prison. He won’t even remain behind bars for the 12-year minimum that was recommended.

“He’s been approved to be released unescorted back into the community in a little under 100 months.”

Ms Davidson said her party had spoken to Michelle’s 0 Ruth Davidson wants a review of the justice system father Kenny, who had asked “how does this send the right message about Scottish justice?”

She said: “When families like those of Michelle Stewart say they feel completely let down by the justice system, can the First Minister understand why?”

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said she sympathised with the Stewart family and will ask new justice secretary Humza Yousaf to meet with them to hear directly about their experiences.

However, she stressed it was important independent processes were in place to take those decisions.