The widow of Keith Rollinson demands action against free bus passes for offenders.
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The tragic death of bus driver Keith Rollinson has sparked outrage as his killer, a 16-year-old boy, is set to receive a free bus pass upon his release from custody. This situation has raised serious questions about the eligibility criteria for the Young Persons’ (Under 22s) Free Bus Travel Scheme in Scotland, particularly concerning individuals convicted of violent crimes.
Background of the incident
Keith Rollinson, aged 58, succumbed to injuries sustained during a brutal attack at Elgin Bus Station last February. The young perpetrator, whose identity remains protected due to legal restrictions, was sentenced to four years and four months for culpable homicide in November.
This lenient sentence has left many, including Rollinson’s widow, Susan, feeling that justice has not been served.
Public reaction and calls for reform
Susan Rollinson has publicly expressed her distress over the situation, stating, “The boy who killed my husband will be entitled to a free bus pass when he is released, even though he attacked and killed a bus driver and previously attacked another one.” Her plea for reform has resonated with the public, prompting calls for the Scottish National Party (SNP) to reconsider the policies surrounding free bus travel for young offenders.
Political support for Susan Rollinson’s plea
Scottish Conservative leader Russell Findlay has joined the call for action, writing to Justice Secretary Angela Constance and Education Secretary Jenny Gilruth. In his correspondence, he highlighted the need for a commitment to revoke bus passes from individuals who misuse them, particularly those involved in violent crimes. Findlay’s letter emphasized the broader implications of the current policy, stating, “This tragedy is one of many cases of serious violence inflicted by young people in possession of free bus passes.”
Proposed changes to the bus pass scheme
In light of these events, Susan Rollinson has proposed that the free bus pass scheme for under-22s should be restricted to weekdays and limited to specific hours, such as up to 7 PM. She advocates for permanent bans on individuals who have a history of abusing drivers, arguing that such measures are necessary to ensure the safety of public transport workers and passengers alike.
The implications of the current policy
The case of Keith Rollinson raises critical questions about the balance between rehabilitation and public safety. As the debate continues, many are left wondering how policies can be adjusted to prevent similar situations in the future. The call for reform is not just about one tragic incident; it reflects a growing concern over the safety of public transport workers and the responsibilities of the justice system in addressing violent behavior among youth.
