A TEENAGER has been found guilty of murdering a classmate in a frenzied knife attack.
At the High Court in Glasgow today, 19-year-old Craig Roy was found guilty of the murder of Jack Frew.
The jury found him guilty unanimously following a 12-day trial.
Mr Roy had admitted killing the 16-year-old but denied murder.
Speaking after the verdict, Area Procurator Fiscal for Lanarkshire Janet Cameron said: “Craig Roy armed himself with a knife and carried out a violent, sustained and murderous attack on Jack Frew.
“Jack Frew died because Craig Roy had a knife and had no hesitation in using it and using it repeatedly.
“This crime yet again demonstrates the devastating consequences that can follow from carrying a knife.
“The senseless loss of such a young life is tragic and caused shock and concern not just to the local community in East Kilbride but across our country.
“Today’s conviction should act as a warning to anyone thinking of leaving home with a knife or using a knife that prosecutors, working together with the police, will ensure that those people are caught, prosecuted and brought to justice.
“Our thoughts remain with the family of Jack Frew at this time.”
Calculating
In a statement following the verdict, Jack’s family said: “This trial is now over……Jack’s family have sat through eleven days of harrowing and distressing evidence.
“The verdict could have been none other than murder because that’s what it was.
“Cold, calculating and planned murder.
“Not only has Jack had his life snatched from him but his good name has been tarnished by wicked words and lies which were unfounded.
“The family can only take comfort from the fact that those who knew Jack know and remember what he really was like.
“He was a happy loving vibrant boy who loved life and brought fun and laughter to every situation.
“Jack loved people, had the world at his fingertips with a promising future ahead and he would have made the most of every minute.
“Since the night of 6th May 2010 many professionals have been involved with Jack’s family.
“Some they have met face to face and many, many others have been working behind the scenes.
“From the police and ambulance crews at the start of the inquiry to the court officials here today everyone has been kind and supportive.
“The family wish to convey their thanks to every single person who has had any involvement in the case so ensuring a satisfactory conclusion and with particular thanks to Advocate Depute Jennifer Bain and her team.
“The accused is now awaiting his sentence however long that may be, his incarceration will come to an end eventually but for Jack’s family a life sentence from which there is no end is just beginning.
“We can only hope that Lord Doherty inflicts the maximum sentence possible for this violent and atrocious crime.
“Finally, the family ask that their privacy is respected to allow them time to try to come to terms with the tragic devastating and needless loss of Jack.”
Roy faces a life sentence for the May 2010 killing, and will be sentenced on March 1.
