EDINBURGH MAN JAILED FOR LIFE AFTER BRUTALLY MURDERING PENSIONER
Martin Stewart, aged 41, has been sentenced to life in prison following his conviction for the murder of 78-year-old Margaret Grant in Edinburgh.Stewart gained access to her residence under the false pretenses of being a postal worker, which facilitated his assault and the theft of money.
Prior to this, he had been released after serving only eight months of a two-year sentence for robbing an elderly woman.
The assault on Ms.
Grant caused her to have a heart attack caused by the severe stress and trauma endured during the attack, and she died shortly afterwards in hospital.
Lady Stacey, the presiding judge, imposed a lifelong restriction order on Stewart, who has a criminal history spanning 25 years.
He is required to serve at least four and a half years before applying for parole.
The court revealed that Stewart's criminal record includes a rape and other violent offences, and he had engaged in similar attacks on pensioners in the Edinburgh area.
Stewart admitted guilt to culpable homicide at a Glasgow court last year, after initially facing a murder charge.
The court described his conduct as ‘despicable,’ highlighting that he had entered her home dishonestly, assaulted her, and ransacked her property.
It was stressed that Ms.
Grant was vulnerable, nearly housebound, and in need of regular care.
DNA evidence and fingerprints were recovered from the scene, establishing Stewart’s involvement.
The court also noted that Stewart's criminal behaviour was linked to his drug addiction, and he could potentially be released if deemed no longer a threat, subject to the decision of the parole board.
