Highlands and Islands MSP Emma Roddick used an opportunity to question the Scottish Government this week on what support it offers victims of violent crimes in the pre-trial period. In her question, Ms Roddick raised the situation of the accused of a violent crime being released on bail despite living in the same building as the victim.
Commenting Ms Roddick said:
“Victims of violent crime will often find it difficult to go about their life during the pre-trial period knowing that the accused has been released on bail in their community, but it’s unimaginable that they could do so while the accused lives in the same building. Current laws prevent the accused from behaving in a manner which is likely to cause alarm or distress, but their mere presence by living in the same building is undoubtedly likely to cause severe distress to the victim.
“I am thankful to the Cabinet Secretary for Justice for agreeing to meet with me to discuss what changes can be made to ensure that victims of violent crimes do not suffer such an intolerable situation. I hope that we will be able to find a way forward that sees victims fully supported.
Emma Roddick MSP 