The Scottland Police warned Scottish Conservative MSP Russel Findlay that his life may be in danger.
Intimidation and Death Threats on the Rise for Those in Power
Intimidation and death threats are issues and concerns that those in higher powers have to deal with more frequently.
Threats Have Doubled Since 2020
The threats to life for Members of the Scottish Parliament have doubled since 2020, going from around five MSP threats in 2020 to eleven in 2023.
Findlay to Replace Douglas Ross
Findlay is a former Crime Journalist who recently entered the contest to replace Douglas Ross, and sadly, he is no stranger to threats.
Ross to Stand Down
Ross declared during campaigning for the general election that he would stand down after serving the role for four years.
Findlay Running for Leadership Position
Findlay is running for party leadership and is the first Scottish Conservative to formally announce his intentions to lead.
Only Declared Candidate
He is currently the only declared candidate for the Scottish Conservative leadership.
Findlay: a Victim of an Acid Attack
In 2015, he was a victim of an acid attack on his doorstep after reporting on the Glasgow gangs.
Burns Committed the Attack on Findlay
The perpetrator was identified as William Burns and was sentenced to ten years in prison for having disguised himself as a postal worker, throwing the acid and attacking Findlay with a knife.
Burns, an Assailant With a Past
Burns is a Glaswegian with a string of convictions and received a further five years of post-release supervision.
Assailant Could Be Released Early
The assailant is reported to have a parole hearing next week, where he could potentially be released early.
Threat From Criminal Linked to Burns
The Police recently informed Findlay of a threat by a “known criminal” and that they could draw a link between Burns and this person.
Full Transparency in Parole and Hearings
Findlay remarked that there should be “full transparency around parole and sentencing” hearings.
Police of Scotland Can’t Discuss Cases
However, the Police of Scotland cannot discuss individual cases but will take “appropriate action” where needed.
Findlay Treads With Caution
Findlay has said, “I am accepting that holding powerful and dangerous people to account can come at a cost and I am therefore cautious by necessity.”
Findlay Believes in Being Defiant Against Threats
“But you can’t run away from threats. It does not work. You have to be defiant and stand firm for what you believe in.”
Regular Safety Discussions With Elected Representatives
Assistant Chief Constable Andy Freeburn has said they regularly discuss safety and security arrangements with elected representatives and have well-established relationships with them.
Scotland Police Working With UK Policing Colleagues
He also said, “ In addition, we work closely with UK policing colleagues to ensure all MSP’s and MP’s are aware of relevant personal safety advice.”
Threats Taken Seriously
Freeburn also stated that they investigate any reports of threats made and take appropriate action if offences are identified.
Nothing Will Stop Him
Mr Findlay said he would ” not let gangland threats” stop him from running for leadership.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / chrisdorney.