JAY SIMPSON SENTENCED IN DUNDEE FOR BRUTAL ASSAULT ON 13-YEAR-OLD BOY AT KIRKTON SUPERMARKET

In a case that has shocked the community of Dundee, 18-year-old Jay Simpson was handed a severe custodial sentence after being found guilty of a vicious assault that left a young boy seriously injured. The incident took place on May 13, 2024, at the Asda supermarket located in the Kirkton area of Dundee, where Simpson's violent actions resulted in life-threatening injuries to a 13-year-old boy.

According to court reports, Simpson approached the young victim in the supermarket and launched a brutal attack. He punched the boy in the head, causing him to fall to the ground. The assault did not end there; Simpson then proceeded to jump repeatedly on the boy’s head using a nearby railing, inflicting severe trauma. The injuries sustained included a fractured skull and bruising to the brain, which required immediate medical attention. The attack was described as deliberate and carried out with significant force, endangering the child's life.

The court heard that Simpson's actions were not only physically damaging but also had long-lasting psychological effects on the victim. The young boy suffered from symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), memory issues, and concentration problems. His schooling, social life, and hobbies have all been adversely affected by the trauma. Medical reports confirmed that the injuries included brain bruising, skull fractures, abrasions, a black eye, and a tender jaw. He experienced concussion and had to return to hospital due to post-concussion symptoms such as tremors and disturbed vision.

Lady Poole, presiding over the case at the High Court in Edinburgh, emphasized the gravity of Simpson’s actions. She noted that Simpson, who has been diagnosed with ADHD and autism spectrum disorder, showed remorse for his conduct. Despite these mitigating factors, she condemned the attack as a cowardly act of violence against a child. Simpson had previously pleaded guilty to assault causing severe injury and danger to life, which influenced the court’s sentencing decision.

In her sentencing remarks, Lady Poole detailed the circumstances of the attack. She explained that Simpson, then 17, and his friends had been involved in a series of disruptive events that day, including the smashing of a window at a house they were in. Following this, Simpson and his friends followed the victim to a supermarket car park after a brief chase. Once there, Simpson ran at the boy, punched him, and caused him to fall against a metal barrier. While the boy was on the ground, Simpson deliberately moved towards his head, grabbing a railing and jumping on his head five times. The attack was swift but targeted, involving deliberate and forceful blows. After the assault, Simpson and his friends fled the scene, leaving the injured boy behind without attempting to seek help.

The court was told that Simpson’s victim was hospitalized with serious injuries, including brain bruising, skull fractures, abrasions, and a black eye. The boy also suffered from concussion and ongoing symptoms such as tremors and vision problems. The attack not only posed immediate danger to his life but also resulted in long-term psychological and physical consequences. The victim’s social, educational, and personal life have been significantly disrupted, and he now exhibits symptoms of PTSD and other mental health issues.

Lady Poole acknowledged Simpson’s voluntary surrender to police later that evening and his cooperation during the legal process. She also considered his age, mental health conditions, and troubled upbringing, which included a history of involvement with mental health services, self-harm, and substance use. Despite these factors, the court recognized the seriousness of the offence, especially given the deliberate nature of the attack and its impact on the victim.

In her sentencing, Lady Poole ordered Simpson to serve a term of three years, three months, and one week in detention. She also imposed a 12-month supervision order upon his release to monitor his conduct and ensure public safety. Additionally, a non-harassment order was issued, prohibiting Simpson from contacting or approaching the victim in any way for ten years. The court’s decision reflects the gravity of the offence and the need to protect the community from further harm, while also considering Simpson’s vulnerabilities and potential for rehabilitation.