Jay Soso

A tragic incident unfolded in Edinburgh when Jay Soso, then 18 years old, carried out a fatal sexual attack on Marie Reid, a 63-year-old woman who had treated him like a grandson. The crime occurred at Reid's sheltered home in Easter Drylaw Way, where she lived alone. Her body was discovered on 15 November 2010, after neighbours raised concerns over her absence for several days. She was found in blood-stained nightclothes on a sofa in her flat.

Soso, who had no previous convictions, pleaded guilty to rape and culpable homicide. At the High Court in Edinburgh, Judge Lady Dorrian imposed an extended sentence on the now 20-year-old offender, detaining him for 12 years and eight months, followed by five years of supervision upon release. The attack was described as a 'fatal sex attack', highlighting the sexual nature of the assault that resulted in Reid's death.

Marie Reid's son, Paul Reid, 31, expressed profound grief and anger in statements to The Guardian. He described his mother as 'sweet and lovable' with a 'big heart', always willing to help her community. Paul recounted knowing Soso since the offender was about eight or nine years old and was shocked by the betrayal, especially since Soso had even offered false condolences after Reid's death. 'I just hope it never happens to anybody,' Paul said, struggling to cope with the loss. His sister, Jacqueline Sanderson, 38, and her husband, Gordon Sanderson, 54, echoed the family's relief at the sentencing, noting that Soso's removal from society would protect other vulnerable women. Gordon remarked, 'He's away and other women in the same situation are going to be safe from him.'

The family thanked the police and prosecutors for their efforts, with Paul stating, 'I'm glad the door's been shut now.' This case underscores the vulnerability of elderly individuals in sheltered housing and the devastating impact of such crimes on families. The incident took place in 2010, with sentencing occurring in August 2012, as reported by The Guardian on 28 August 2012.