A Dundee man recently released from HMP Perth found himself back before the court, narrowly escaping a return to prison after attempting to smuggle drugs to a fellow inmate. The incident, which took place in early 2022, involved a seemingly innocuous hug, but keen-eyed prison officers suspected something more was afoot.
Steven Stewart, 43, had only recently been released from a three-year sentence at HMP Perth for armed robbery of a Dundee taxi driver. However, his freedom was short-lived as he decided to revisit the prison, this time as a visitor. During a visit with inmate Norman Gunn, Stewart attempted to pass a package concealed in his underwear. A prison officer observed a suspicious exchange between the two men during a hug at the end of the visit. Caught on Camera
Stewart was detained, and Gunn was searched, revealing a small cellophane wrap containing what was later confirmed to be heroin. CCTV footage confirmed the officer’s suspicions, clearly showing Stewart retrieving the package from his underwear and Gunn subsequently concealing it. The heroin, weighing 8.6 grams, had an estimated prison value of £1,290. This significant mark-up highlights the lucrative, yet illegal, nature of the drug trade within prison walls and the risks individuals like Stewart are willing to take. A Transformed Life
Despite the gravity of the offence, Perth Sheriff Court heard compelling arguments for leniency. Stewart’s solicitor detailed his client’s struggles with substance abuse, which fueled his previous criminal activity. Crucially, the court heard how Stewart had taken proactive steps towards rehabilitation since the 2022 incident. He had left Dundee, entered a drug rehabilitation centre, and had not re-offended in the intervening three years. This demonstrated a commitment to changing his life and breaking free from the cycle of addiction and crime. This positive change resonated with Sheriff Andrew Berry.
Sheriff Berry acknowledged the seriousness of the crime, stating that it would typically warrant a custodial sentence. However, he commended Stewart for the significant progress he had made, stating that imprisonment would be counterproductive to his rehabilitation. Instead, Stewart was sentenced to a year of supervision and 100 hours of unpaid work. Sheriff Berry expressed his encouragement, acknowledging the considerable effort Stewart had made to reform his life.
This case highlights the complexities of the justice system and the ongoing battle against drugs within prisons. While Stewart’s actions were undoubtedly illegal and dangerous, his subsequent commitment to rehabilitation played a significant role in the sheriff’s decision. This offers a glimmer of hope for those struggling with addiction and serves as a reminder of the importance of rehabilitation and second chances within the local community. The incident also underscores the vigilance of prison staff in preventing contraband from entering HMP Perth, contributing to the safety and security of both inmates and staff within the facility.
This story is likely to resonate with many in Perth and Kinross, raising questions about the effectiveness of rehabilitation programmes and the challenges faced by those reintegrating into society after serving time. It also serves as a reminder of the impact of drug addiction on individuals, families, and the wider community, as well as highlighting the support available locally for those seeking help and recovery.
Steven Stewart, 43, had only recently been released from a three-year sentence at HMP Perth for armed robbery of a Dundee taxi driver. However, his freedom was short-lived as he decided to revisit the prison, this time as a visitor. During a visit with inmate Norman Gunn, Stewart attempted to pass a package concealed in his underwear. A prison officer observed a suspicious exchange between the two men during a hug at the end of the visit. Caught on Camera
Stewart was detained, and Gunn was searched, revealing a small cellophane wrap containing what was later confirmed to be heroin. CCTV footage confirmed the officer’s suspicions, clearly showing Stewart retrieving the package from his underwear and Gunn subsequently concealing it. The heroin, weighing 8.6 grams, had an estimated prison value of £1,290. This significant mark-up highlights the lucrative, yet illegal, nature of the drug trade within prison walls and the risks individuals like Stewart are willing to take. A Transformed Life
Despite the gravity of the offence, Perth Sheriff Court heard compelling arguments for leniency. Stewart’s solicitor detailed his client’s struggles with substance abuse, which fueled his previous criminal activity. Crucially, the court heard how Stewart had taken proactive steps towards rehabilitation since the 2022 incident. He had left Dundee, entered a drug rehabilitation centre, and had not re-offended in the intervening three years. This demonstrated a commitment to changing his life and breaking free from the cycle of addiction and crime. This positive change resonated with Sheriff Andrew Berry.
Sheriff Berry acknowledged the seriousness of the crime, stating that it would typically warrant a custodial sentence. However, he commended Stewart for the significant progress he had made, stating that imprisonment would be counterproductive to his rehabilitation. Instead, Stewart was sentenced to a year of supervision and 100 hours of unpaid work. Sheriff Berry expressed his encouragement, acknowledging the considerable effort Stewart had made to reform his life.
This case highlights the complexities of the justice system and the ongoing battle against drugs within prisons. While Stewart’s actions were undoubtedly illegal and dangerous, his subsequent commitment to rehabilitation played a significant role in the sheriff’s decision. This offers a glimmer of hope for those struggling with addiction and serves as a reminder of the importance of rehabilitation and second chances within the local community. The incident also underscores the vigilance of prison staff in preventing contraband from entering HMP Perth, contributing to the safety and security of both inmates and staff within the facility.
This story is likely to resonate with many in Perth and Kinross, raising questions about the effectiveness of rehabilitation programmes and the challenges faced by those reintegrating into society after serving time. It also serves as a reminder of the impact of drug addiction on individuals, families, and the wider community, as well as highlighting the support available locally for those seeking help and recovery.