The violent criminal who attacked Russell Findlay on his doorstep in Glasgow would have been released years earlier under the SNP’s latest early release scheme plans.
William Burns was released last week after being sentenced to 10 years in jail for the attack, as well as a further five years under supervision upon release from custody.
However, the SNP’s proposals, which were snuck out on the last day before Parliament’s summer recess, would see long-term prisoners like Burns automatically released after serving only two-thirds of their sentence.
This would have meant Burns, who was denied parole on five separate occasions during his time in jail, would have been free after only six or seven years.
The SNP’s proposals would also mean a presumption against prison sentences of up to two years, as well as re-defining short-term sentences from under four years to up to five years.
Findlay says the SNP’s weak approach to justice betrays crime victims and exposes the public to more dangerous criminals.
His party are running a campaign against the SNP’s “reckless” plans and Findlay has urged John Swinney to stop his “relentless political meddling” in relation to the sentencing of criminals.
Scottish Conservative leader Russell Findlay said: “We oppose the SNP's reckless bid to free long-term prisoners after serving just two-thirds of their sentences.
“It means that thugs like William Burns will be let out automatically even when it's known they're a danger to the public.
“The parole board blocked Burns from being released on at least five separate occasions but the SNP clearly think they know better.
“John Swinney's relentless political meddling in relation to sentencing is an attack on judicial independence and deceitful to the public.
“The SNP's weak approach also betrays crime victims, exposes the public to increased danger and undermines Scotland's brave police officers.”
Notes:
The SNP government’s consultation document can be viewed here: https://www.gov.scot/publications/penal-reform-working-towards-sustainable-prison-population-consultation/
The proposals were reported on June 25 here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c872yr4r12ro
Russell Findlay spoke about the release of William Burns to the BBC: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cpq8ndxd1n5o
He has posted a video about the SNP’s plans on X: https://x.com/RussellFindlay1/status/2084674776027562301?s=20