Retired sheriff to review FAI system for deaths in prison custody

A retired senior sheriff will conduct a review of Scotland’s fatal accident inquiry (FAI) system for deaths in prison custody, aiming to improve the efficiency of investigations and make them “trauma-informed”.

Retired Sheriff Principal Ian Abercrombie will oversee the review, which was commissioned by Justice Secretary Angela Constance.

His review also aims to address the length of time it takes for FAIs to be completed.

Earlier this year, Ms Constance pledged a “systemic response” following an FAI into the deaths of Katie Allan and William Brown – also known as William Lindsay – who took their own lives within months of each other while in Polmont YOI in 2018.

It took five years for an FAI into their deaths to be announced, prompting claims the system is flawed.

Sheriff Principal Abercrombie said: “I am pleased to be leading this review.

“I understand that concerns have been raised about how the FAI system currently operates in relation to deaths in prison custody.

“As an independent chair, ably assisted by my advisory group, I am looking forward to hearing from all those with experience or knowledge of the system.”

Ms Constance said: “A review of the FAI system was a key action from the Government’s consideration of the FAI inquiry determinations into the tragic deaths of Katie Allan and William Lindsay.

“Families have been let down and their experience of the system has added to their grief. Their voices will be heard and listened to during this independent review.

“The remit of the review will consider issues surrounding FAIs held into deaths in prison custody.

“Maintaining the pace of reform is essential, which is why I have asked to receive the report by the end of this year.”