Victims of crime and their families are appealing to Scotland's First Minister John Swinney to implement stricter bail conditions for individuals accused of attacking women and to abandon plans for the earlier release of long-term prisoners. The demands come amid growing concerns that the current justice approach is insufficient to address a perceived epidemic of violence against women.
Sean Hunter, whose sister Stacy Hunter was murdered by her husband while he was on bail for assaulting her, stated that immediate changes to bail conditions are necessary to prevent further tragedies. He emphasized the need for increased accountability, suggesting that keeping more individuals in custody and implementing a register for domestic violence perpetrators would be crucial steps.
Liz Shanks, a survivor of a three-year abusive relationship, echoed these sentiments, criticizing Scotland's justice system for what she described as a tendency to favor perpetrators over victims. She specifically called for the withdrawal of proposals that would allow long-term prisoners, including those convicted of sex offenses and domestic abuse, to be released after serving two-thirds of their sentence. Shanks believes that early release undermines deterrence and discourages victims from coming forward.
During a parliamentary session, Swinney acknowledged the need for increased leadership in tackling violence against women and girls. He announced that regulations for GPS monitoring of individuals on bail, including those suspected of domestic abuse, will be introduced before the October recess, with a pilot program planned for next year in Tayside, central Scotland, and Fife. Swinney also noted that a new sexual offenses court is slated to be established within the next financial year.
However, Swinney maintained that decisions regarding bail are primarily within the judiciary's independent purview, while legislation already in place provides a comprehensive bail test for judges. This response did not fully satisfy critics like Scottish Conservative leader Russell Findlay, who has heard accounts from victims and highlighted concerns about the bail system. Findlay urged Swinney to remove the early release plan, citing public safety risks and potential damage to public trust in the justice system.
SNP MSP David Linden, convener of the criminal justice committee, expressed reservations about recent bail reforms and noted concerns from police officers. He also cautioned that GPS monitoring might create a false sense of security.
Victim Support Scotland, through its head of communications Carol Eden, stated that strengthening risk assessments and incorporating victim feedback are essential to protect women from domestic violence. The organization advocates for victim safety and lived experiences to be central to any new proposals, particularly those concerning early release and bail conditions.