TRIGGER WARNING: This episode covers the topic of rape, so listener discretion is advised. 

Part 1:

Dawn, host of Scottish Murders, explores a chilling case that unfolds in two parts. The episodes focus on John Cant Smith, a man whose extensive criminal history raised questions about the justice system. Dawn recounts John Cant Smith’s attempted abduction of Dr. Frances Smith in 2006, a time when his prior convictions for murder and rape were disclosed. Dawn also discusses the lenient sentencing practices of the 1980s, and tries to understand why this man was ever released from prison.

Please Be Advised – This episode may contain content that some may find distressing. As always, we advise listener discretion. This episode it not suitable for anyone under the age of 13.

Part 2 continues to look at the disturbing case of John Cant Smith, a convicted murderer and rapist who was released from prison despite mounting evidence he remained dangerous. After serving 19 years for a brutal 1983 murder, John Cant Smith was freed in 2002, only to reoffend within months. This episode explores his 1987 involvement in the notorious Peterhead Prison riot, his subsequent crimes including prowling around a mother and daughter’s home, and his 2006 attempted abduction. Host Dawn questions why John Cant Smith was repeatedly released despite clear warning signs, examining failures in the criminal justice system that allowed a violent offender to threaten public safety. The episode also raises questions about rehabilitation, life sentences that don’t mean life, and whether some criminals deserve second chances when their victims never received one.

Please Be Advised – This episode may contain content that some may find distressing. As always, we advise listener discretion. This episode it not suitable for anyone under the age of 13.

Scotland Then: Master Keys, Murder Trials and Incredible Survival Stories from Scotland’s 1983

Welcome back to another Scotland Then, where we journey through intriguing and sometimes shocking stories from Scotland’s past as reported in newspapers.

In this episode, Dawn takes us to April and June of 1983, a time marked by notorious crimes, prison scandals, and unexpected accidents. We’ll hear of the master key controversy at Dungavel Prison, where an inmate allegedly bribed a prison officer and crafted keys that opened almost every lock. There’s also the morbid tale of Catherine Grier’s murder, as well as a party that spiralled into violence and culminated in a tragic shooting.

Amidst these grim headlines, we get a glimpse into lighter news, such as Edinburgh University’s feature in a BBC documentary, and the survival story of a teenager who fell into a 150-foot gully on a rope swing—living to tell the tale. Commenting on the culture and crime of the era, Dawn asks listeners to remember, respond, and share their own experiences.

Tune in for an episode packed with real-life drama, and even a few moments of Scottish nostalgia.

Please Be Advised – This episode may contain content that some may find distressing. As always, we advise listener discretion. This episode it not suitable for anyone under the age of 13.