Michelle Stewart killer released after 16 years behind bars

The family of murdered Drongan teenager Michelle Stewart say they are ‘more than disappointed’ her killer has been released after 16 years behind bars.

John Wilson brutally killed 17-year-old Michelle outside a shop in 2008.

He was given a life sentence in the same year after it was found he had ambushed his ex-girlfriend and stabbed her to death.

Following Michelle's death, a family campaign group was set up named Michelle's Law, which aimed to protect the families of victims and put their welfare at the centre of any decision on parole and early release.

But on Wednesday they announced Wilson had been released, following his fourth parole hearing, on the condition he doesn’t ever contact Michelle’s friends or family and he cannot live in North, South or East Ayrshire.

Dad Kenny insists he feared this day would come.

He said: “Probably it has been expected, we knew this day would eventually come.

“He got sentenced to 12 years and he’s done 16.

“He’s out, and life is not life in the UK or Scotland, but Michelle is dead, her life is gone, but he is now out after 16 years.

“People have been sending us messages saying they hope he doesn’t get out, he should rot, he should die in there.

“We’re disappointed in today’s decision, but we are not shocked, we were expecting it.”

Wilson was denied release nine months ago during his fourth parole board meeting.

And Kenny questioned what changed in those nine months.

“Obviously they have done the risk assessment and he’s out and about in the public,” Kenny added.

“Don’t get me wrong, there are exclusions zones, we don’t know the full details but we do know he is not allowed back in Ayrshire.”

On Wednesday evening, the Michelle’s Law Facebook group, run by sister Lisa, announced Wilson’s release.

They wrote: “After fighting the past four years, three of which have been successful, John Wilson has today been granted parole. To say we are disappointed is an understatement. I am gutted that Michelle's killer is now free to roam the streets and live freely while Michelle lies in a cemetery through HIS actions.

“I will continue to advocate and fight for victim's rights to try and bring about some sort of change within the justice system to try and make it a more fair and balanced system for ALL.

“We would like to thank everyone who has supported us in the fight to keep him off the streets and in jail.”

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