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Inmate Pleads Guilty to Life-Endangering Slashing During Visiting Hours at Edinburgh Prison

Sentencing will follow later this year after the High Court viewed CCTV of the attack.

Overview

  • Donald McAvoy, 36, admitted assaulting fellow inmate Colin Lindsay with a concealed blade, causing severe injury and permanent disfigurement.
  • The October 21, 2025 incident at HMP Saughton happened during visiting time with families and young children present, as shown in court footage.
  • Prosecutors said officers quickly restrained McAvoy and witnesses heard him say, “I done what I needed to do,” while no motive has been determined.
  • McAvoy was serving a roll‑up sentence of five years and 10 months and later received an additional 15 months for possessing razor blades and a prohibited SIM at Glenochil.
  • Defense lawyers said he inherited a sizeable legacy that could support a lawful life on release, and public interest has heightened due to his link to actor James McAvoy.