Timeline for new law sought in wake of tragic death

Following the death of 17-year-old Jonathan Beadle at HMP&YOI Polmont on Saturday, Holyrood’s Criminal Justice Committee has written to victims minister Siobhian Brown MSP.

Jonathan, who is believed to have taken his own life, had been convicted of offences including breach of the peace and had previously been held at a secure care unit.

In the letter, Criminal Justice Committee convener Audrey Nicoll MSP writes: “I recognise that the death of Mr Beadle will be the subject of an FAI in due course. In the meantime, I would be grateful for details of the timeline in this case and the circumstances that lead to the decision to move Mr Beadle from secure care to HMP&YOI Polmont.’

“The committee is also seeking an update on the timescales for the implementation of sections 16 to 18 of the Children (Care and Justice) (Scotland) Act and the reasons why these remain to be enacted.”

Nicola Killean, the children and young people’s commissioner for Scotland, said Jonathan’s death was a tragedy.

“Our thoughts go to their family and everyone who knew, and cared for them. Prison is no place for a child,” she said.

She added that his case “reinforces the urgency” of implementing the Children (Care and Justice) (Scotland) Bill, provides that children under the age of 18 will no longer be sent to prison.

A Scottish Prison Service spokesperson said: “Every death, whether in prison custody or in our communities, is a tragedy for all those who knew and supported the individual. Following the death of someone in our care, Police Scotland are advised, and the matter reported to the procurator fiscal.”