William Burns, Acid Attacker of MSP Russell Findlay, Released From Prison

William Burns, the individual convicted for a 2008 acid attack on Russell Findlay, now a Scottish Conservative Member of the Scottish Parliament (MSP), has been released from prison. Findlay, who sustained severe injuries, including permanent damage to his eyesight, expressed concerns regarding the release.

Organised Crime Links

Findlay stated that his prior investigations into organised crime, which were ongoing at the time of the assault, mean there could be "unfinished business" from those groups. He also highlighted that Burns's actions were part of a wider pattern of intimidation tactics employed by criminal organisations.

Burns was handed an order for lifelong restriction in 2013 for the attack, which occurred at Findlay's Glasgow home. He was also convicted for the attempted murder of a drug dealer in 2010. The 2008 assault saw Burns, alongside another accomplice, throw sulphuric acid in Findlay's face.

Findlay, a vocal critic of organised crime, has consistently pressed authorities on their approach to these groups. His comments underscore the enduring challenge posed by such networks in Scotland, even after convictions and prison sentences for those directly involved in violence.