News In Focus
26 June 2009
Rules not followed in prison transfer case
Tough new rules introduced last year for transferring prisoners to the open estate were not followed in the case of Brian Martin, according to an independent report carried out by Professor Alec Spencer from the University of Stirling.
Professor Spencer's review was commissioned by Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill after Martin absconded from Castle Huntly open prison in May.
Mr MacAskill said: "Professor Spencer's report supports our view that open prison is still necessary for the successful reintegration of serious offenders. However, it is vital that the robust processes put in place to ensure public safety are followed every time a prisoner is being considered for transfer to open conditions.
"Professor Spencer has made nine recommendations to ensure those robust processes are applied and in some cases tightened even more. SPS is already implementing four of them. He has also made a number of suggestions, including the use of GPS tagging and simplification of parts of the decision making process.
"We will consider the longer term recommendations and suggestions and respond in the autumn."
Mr MacAskill faced calls for his resignation in the wake of Martin's escape, but the report suggests that the failings were within the prison service.
To download Professor Spencer’s report Balancing risk and need, click here