Scotland’s Justice Secretary yesterday apologised to the family of a prisoner who died after being restrained in a jail.
Humza Yousaf met relatives of Allan Marshall, 30, who died after being dragged face down along a corridor by several officers at Edinburgh’s Saughton prison in 2015.
Yousaf told the family Allan’s death should not have happened. He added that he was sorry and to prevent a similar tragedy.
Allan’s aunt, Sharon MacFadyen, said last night: “He was apologetic, compassionate and genuine but time will tell if he does what he says he’s going to do.
“This is not just about Allan, it is about a death like his never happening again. Nothing will bring Allan back but we want positive change to come from his death.”
The family handed over a list of demands, including a call for a wider independent review of the prison system. Sharon added: “An independent inquiry is an absolute priority.”
CCTV footage of the restraint showed officers “stamping” on Allan and holding him down.
In a FAI ruling, Sheriff Gordon Liddle said Allan’s death from a cardiac arrest after restraint by prison officers was “entirely preventable”.
Yousaf said: “I cannot influence or comment upon independent investigations and decisions of the Crown Office, nor internal SPS employment processes.
“As Sheriff Liddle noted, Mr Marshall’s death was entirely preventable and the SPS will have to respond in full to his recommendations.
“I expect further action to be taken to ensure not only that lessons are learned but are acted upon in a way which helps prevent such incidents happening in future.”
● The Marshalls are raising funds for legal costs. You can donate here .
