Transgender double rapist complains of ‘transphobic abuse’ from inmates
A transgender rapist who attacked two ladies whereas residing as a person has complained of “transphobic” abuse from different inmates. Isla Bryson was jailed for eight years in February for raping two ladies in 2016 and 2019 when she was residing as a person. Bryson, who was born Adam Graham, stated the “police are involved” due to the “abuse” she is going through in jail.
In a letter despatched from HMP Edinburgh to the Sunday Mail, Bryson stated: “I’m not doing too good because of abuse from the staff members, all because I am transgender, and other prisoners too.
“This jail is filled with transphobic individuals. The police are concerned due to the abuse to do with my gender. People will not cease being transphobic.”
Police Scotland have since confirmed that a 24-year-old man has been arrested in connection with alleged abusive and threatening behaviour.
A force spokesperson said: “Around 11am on Thursday 8 June 2023, we acquired a report of a hate crime at HMP Edinburgh.
“A 24-year-old man has been charged in connection with threatening and abusive behaviour. A report will be submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.”
The Scottish Prison Service (SPS) advised Sky News it doesn’t touch upon people.
A spokesperson added: “Any allegations of criminal behaviour are reported to Police Scotland for independent investigation.
“We count on the best requirements of behaviour from our workers. We have procedures in place to analyze allegations made in opposition to our workers, and take motion if required.”
The SPS had initially decided to house Bryson in segregation at all-female jail Cornton Vale but this sparked backlash from the public and politicians.
Bryson was then moved to the male estate and an urgent case review was ordered. The review concluded that women were not at risk from harm while Bryson was at the all-female jail.
It was also stated that Bryson did not come into contact with any other inmates during their time at Cornton Vale near Stirling.
Until the wider SPS Gender Identity and Gender Reassignment (GIGR) Policy Review is complete, any transgender person in custody who has a history of violence against women – including sexual offences – will not be relocated from the male to female estate.
One of Bryson’s victims said she was sure Bryson had chosen to change gender “as a straightforward approach out” after the rapes.
Bryson’s estranged wife also said it was a “sham for consideration”. Bryson spoke of identifying as a female at the age of four but said they did not make the decision to transition until the age of 29.
The court heard that Bryson still intended to proceed with gender reassignment and that the health service would accommodate the situation. However, Bryson faces years on a waiting list for the surgery.
In the letter to the Sunday Mail, Bryson, of Clydebank in West Dunbartonshire, promised the newspaper “the story of a lifetime” and requested £1,000 for an interview.