A transgender woman who was convicted of rape before transitioning will not be imprisoned in the all-female Cornton Vale prison in Scotland, Nicola Sturgeon has said.
Isla Bryson was this week found guilty of raping two women while she was a man following a trial at the High Court in Glasgow.
It is understood the 31-year-old is being held at Cornton Vale women’s prison in Stirling while she awaits sentencing.
It has led to concerns about the safety of any women held alongside Bryson – and whether the rapist should be imprisoned there.
Speaking at First Minister’s Questions at Holyrood on Thursday, Ms Sturgeon confirmed a risk assessment is being carried out by the Scottish Prison Service, as she stressed Bryson would not be held at Cornton Vale.
She said: “It would not be appropriate for me in respect of any prisoner to give details of where they are being incarcerated.
“But given the understandable public and parliamentary concern in this case I can confirm to parliament that this prisoner will not be incarcerated at Cornton Vale women’s prison.
“I hope that provides assurance to the public.”
Bryson attacked the victims before she transitioned to female and when she was known as Adam Graham.