BREAKING: Three individuals have been convicted of the culpable homicide of Ryan Munro, who tragically jumped from a window in a desperate bid to escape their extortion attempts. The jury at the High Court in Edinburgh reached the verdict on Friday, confirming that the actions of Stephen Stewart, Jennifer Souter, and Victoria McGowan created an “environment of menace and threats” that led to Munro’s fatal fall on January 10, 2024.
The court heard harrowing details of the incident, where Munro was abducted at a flat on Morgan Street, Dundee. The trio intimidated him to the point of “extreme fear and alarm,” forcing him to leap from a height in a desperate attempt to escape their demands for money. This shocking case highlights the severe consequences of violent extortion and the vulnerabilities of victims caught in such dire situations.
During the trial, it was revealed that the accused had subjected Munro to threats and intimidation, ultimately leading him to jump from the window of the property. Their actions not only resulted in Munro’s tragic death but also displayed a blatant disregard for human life.
The jury also cleared Ramsay El Nakla, the brother-in-law of former first minister Humza Yousaf, of participating in the extortion, although he had been a key witness. El Nakla testified about purchasing drugs from Stewart, highlighting the chaotic and dangerous atmosphere surrounding the events.
Prosecutor Alex Prentice KC emphasized the atmosphere of terror created by the trio. He stated, “The Crown’s position is that it was the actions of Stephen Stewart, Jennifer Souter, and Victoria McGowan which caused Ryan Munro to escape from the window and fall to his death.” This critical evidence contributed to the jury’s decision to convict the trio on all charges.
Following the verdict, Judge Lady Drummond remanded the trio into custody, signaling that significant sentences are anticipated. She stated, “You can all expect a significant custodial sentence for these offences,” and called for reports into their backgrounds before sentencing, scheduled for February 4, 2025.
In a poignant victim impact statement, Munro’s family expressed the profound grief they have endured since his death, stressing how much he is missed. The emotional weight of this case resonates deeply, as Munro was described as a capable adult who struggled against addiction but was working to improve his life.
In a parallel development, prosecutors are set to pursue a proceeds of crime action against Stewart and McGowan concerning criminal assets gained from their involvement in drug dealing. This signifies an ongoing fight against the broader issues of drug-related crime and violence in the region.
Authorities report that the conviction underscores a critical message about the dangers of extortion and the tragic outcomes that can arise from such criminal behavior. The community is left reeling from this devastating incident, and the court’s decision serves as a reminder of the urgent need for justice in cases of this nature.
As this story develops, more details are expected to emerge, and the impact of Munro’s loss will continue to resonate within his family and the community. Stay tuned for further updates on this case and the upcoming sentencing that aims to deliver justice for Ryan Munro.
