SHAUN MUIR FROM BONNYRIGG SENTENCED AFTER VIOLENT ATTACK ON PREGNANT GIRLFRIEND IN EDINBURGH

A man identified as Shaun Muir, hailing from Bonnyrigg, has been sentenced to prison following a brutal assault on his pregnant partner during a heated argument at her residence in Edinburgh. The incident, which took place on July 8 of the previous year, involved Muir physically attacking Lucy Murray, who was seven weeks pregnant at the time, in a manner that has shocked the local community and prompted a police response.

According to court reports, the assault began after Muir, who was heavily intoxicated, returned to Ms Murray’s home following a visit to purchase more alcohol. An argument erupted when Ms Murray asked him to leave her property. The situation escalated quickly, with Muir refusing to comply and reportedly stating, “the only way you will get out is to have me lifted.” This exchange left Ms Murray feeling fearful for her safety and that of her unborn child.

As the confrontation intensified, Ms Murray attempted to call her mother for assistance. However, Muir forcibly seized her phone, leading to a physical struggle. During this altercation, Muir pushed Ms Murray by the neck multiple times, causing her to fall to the ground. He then stood over her, grabbing her throat with both hands and applying pressure in an apparent attempt to choke her. The violence was so severe that a neighbor, hearing Ms Murray’s screams, contacted the police immediately.

Following the neighbor’s call, Ms Murray managed to escape to a nearby car park, where she was found by officers in a state of extreme distress, crying and visibly shaken. Police officers quickly located Muir nearby and took him into custody. The court was informed that Muir’s behavior was not isolated, as he has an extensive criminal record that includes breaches of community payback orders and a restriction of liberty order.

During the hearing, Muir pleaded guilty to charges of assault and threatening behavior. His defense solicitor, Andy Bryson, explained that Muir has long struggled with substance misuse, including alcohol and drugs, which has been exacerbated by the death of a former partner three years prior. Bryson also noted that Muir had little recollection of the attack itself, citing his intoxication with Buckfast and cocaine, and expressed that Muir was genuinely ashamed of his actions.

In her sentencing remarks, Sheriff Fiona Tait described Muir’s conduct as “particularly concerning,” especially considering the vulnerability of Ms Murray, who was pregnant at the time. She emphasized that the severity of the assault left no alternative but to impose a custodial sentence. Muir was sentenced to a total of 27 months in prison and was also issued a non-harassment order, which prohibits him from contacting Ms Murray for the next five years. The court’s decision underscores the seriousness with which such violent behavior, especially involving a pregnant woman, is regarded in Edinburgh and the surrounding areas.