Polmont slated over failing tragic Jack, 20

THE Scottish Prison Service has been slammed after a sheriff ruled two staff should have been disciplined following the death of a young inmate.

- By Richard Elias

Jack McKenzie, 20, killed himself at HMP Polmont Young Offenders’ Institute in September 2021.

It came three years after two other inmates committed suicide within months of each other at the same unit.

Yesterday, Sheriff Simon Collins, in a written ruling, said the latest death could have been prevented.

Mr McKenzie was awaiting trial for rape and sexual assault charges which he denied. On September 1, 2021, the habitual drug user had been due to attend court and was hopeful he may be bailed.

But during the day, he became agitated and was believed to be under the influence of an illegal substance.

Mr McKenzie, from Glasgow, was placed on observations and in isolation.