NICOLA Sturgeon announced there would be a "significant case review" after the murder and rape of 67-year-old Esther Brown.
The first minister made the announcement at First Minister's Questions (FMQs) today after Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross questioned her on the circumstances which led to the "brutal attack".
He said: “67 year old Esther Brown was raped and murdered by Jason Graham. This is a man who was a registered sex offender. He had 23 previous convictions. In 2013 he was given a seven and a half year sentence for the rape of a retired nurse but he got released early on licence.
“After Graham was sentenced on Wednesday for this brutal attack, one of Esther’s friends said she was the type of person that would go and help anybody. First Minister, can you honestly say that your government’s approach to justice is keeping Scotland safe?”
Mr Graham was sentenced to 19 years behind bars on Wednesday for the rape and murder of Esther Brown.
Ms Sturgeon paid tribute to Ms Brown and said her thoughts were with her family and friends. She added: “Firstly and most importantly can I say that my thoughts and my sympathies are with are with Esther Browns family and friends. Absolutely nothing, including nothing I or anybody else in this chamber can say will ease the pain that the family is suffering or ease the pain of anyone who knew her.
“I do hope that the closure of the sentence yesterday will bring some closure to the family but I do not underestimate the pain they are suffering or will continue to suffer for some time.
“I think it is important to recognise that in this case, there will be significant case review that will assess the circumstances of the protection arrangements which were in place and the roles of the operational agencies which were involved and it will have a very clear view to learning any lessons and it is right and it is proper and indeed I would say, it is essential that lessons are learned and acted upon as appropriate."
The Scottish Government brought in legislation in 2016 which put an end to automatic release for prisoners.
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