UPDATE: Three individuals have been convicted of culpable homicide in the tragic death of Ryan Munro, a 36-year-old man who died after jumping from a window to escape their extortionate threats. The verdicts were delivered Friday afternoon at the High Court in Edinburgh, revealing a shocking case of intimidation that left the victim in a state of extreme fear.
The convicted trio, identified as Stephen Stewart, 52, Jennifer Souter, 40, and Victoria McGowan, 43, created an environment of terror on January 10, 2024, at a flat on Morgan Street, Dundee. Prosecutors detailed how they abducted Munro, demanding money and using threats to instill fear. In a desperate attempt to escape, Munro jumped from a “window at height,” tragically falling to his death.
The court heard harrowing details of the circumstances leading to this fatal decision. The jury found that the trio’s actions resulted in Munro experiencing “extreme” alarm for his safety, ultimately leading him to leap from the building in a panic. They were found guilty on all charges after jurors deliberated on the overwhelming evidence presented during the trial.
During the trial, it was revealed that Ramsay El Nakla, the brother-in-law of former First Minister Humza Yousaf, had initially faced charges related to the extortion but was acquitted. El Nakla testified as a Crown witness, shedding light on the chaotic drug environment surrounding Munro’s death. He disclosed spending £800 a day on crack cocaine, sourced from Stewart, and described a disturbing scene where he was pressured to confront Munro for money.
Prosecutor Alex Prentice KC emphasized the atmosphere of “absolute terror” created by the accused, arguing that it directly led to Munro’s fatal leap. He stated, “The actions of Stephen Stewart, Jennifer Souter, and Victoria McGowan caused Ryan Munro to escape from the window and fall to his death.”
As the jury delivered their verdict, Judge Lady Drummond remanded the trio, indicating that they could expect a significant custodial sentence. She also called for background reports, stating, “It is clear to me that he is deeply missed by all his family.” Sentencing is scheduled for February 4, 2025.
The case sheds light on the devastating impact of drug-related crime and extortion, with Munro’s family submitting a victim impact statement detailing their profound loss. Prentice highlighted the struggles of Munro’s family, noting their difficulty in coping with this tragedy. He stated, “Ryan Munro was able to function, have a job, and did everything he could to get away from this terrible addiction.”
Following the convictions, prosecutors are expected to initiate a proceeds of crime action against Stewart and McGowan concerning assets acquired through drug dealing. This development underscores the ongoing legal repercussions of their actions beyond the immediate convictions.
As this case continues to unfold, it highlights urgent issues surrounding crime and safety in communities. The emotional toll on Munro’s family serves as a reminder of the human cost behind such violent acts. Stay tuned for more updates as the legal proceedings progress.
