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The LRB Podcast
Deaths in Custody
Feb 19, 2025
Dani Garavelli, a journalist for the Herald on Sunday, has been investigating the heartbreaking cases of Katie Allan and William Lindsay, who tragically died in Scottish prisons. She discusses the alarming suicide rates among young inmates, revealing a healthcare system that fails them. Garavelli highlights the systemic flaws in youth justice, advocating for urgent reforms. She also shares insights into the personal impact of these tragedies on families and the need for societal change to support mental health in custody.
35:37
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Quick takeaways
- The tragic deaths of Katie Allan and William Lindsay highlight significant systemic failures in the Scottish prison system regarding inmate mental health care and safety protocols.
- The families of the deceased advocate for accountability and systemic reforms in youth justice, emphasizing the need for societal compassion towards young offenders.
Deep dives
The Tragic Stories of Katie Allen and William Lindsay
Katie Allen and William Lindsay had contrasting backgrounds but shared tragic outcomes, both ending their lives while incarcerated at Polmont Young Offender Institution in Scotland. Katie, from a stable suburban Glasgow home, faced anxiety and self-harm issues, which were exacerbated during her 16-month sentence for a driving incident that resulted in injury. Despite attempts to communicate her distress, including reports of bullying and being strip-searched, she was not afforded the necessary support and ultimately took her life. William, on the other hand, came from a chaotic upbringing marked by trauma and instability, having moved through various care placements; his mental health struggles led him to suicide shortly after his imprisonment despite being placed on an anti-suicide strategy initially.
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