East Lothian teenage thug got girl pregnant in 'maximum security' children's unit

Billy Stewart was just 16 when he was part of a feral gang who punched, kicked and stamped on victim Rhys Reynolds during a horror attack in Musselburgh, East Lothian, two years ago.

Stewart was jailed for five years for his involvement in the brutal gang assault and due to his age he was spending the first stretch of the sentence at a children’s unit.

While at the unit Stewart, from Prestonpans, East Lothian, started a relationship with a vulnerable young girl who subsequently fell pregnant. The baby is due early next year.

Stewart’s identity and picture can now be revealed after the thug turned 18 last Saturday.

A source said: “It really is beyond belief Stewart has been allowed to father a child while inside the secure unit.

“His victim must be so angry that he seems to be living the life of Riley instead of being punished for what was a horrific crime.

“The pregnancy is the talk of the town down here and most people think it is a total scandal this has been allowed to happen.”

Stewart’s mother Amanda Stewart confirmed her son was being moved to Polmont Young Offenders Institution after posting a birthday message to him on her Facebook page.

She said: “Can’t believe I have an 18yr old son - today is the day for years I was so excited for.

“I should've been surprising you with your first car, maybe a set of keys to your first wee flat.

“I never thought I’d see the day where I’d be waiting on a phone call to see when I can come visit you in jail.

“I know your gonna walk in there tomorrow with your head up, do your time, and come out and be the best daddy ever to your little girl - letting go of my boy and getting a man back.

“I'm beyond proud of you son. Happy 18th birthday my boy.”

The Care Inspectorate launched an investigation into the pregnancy following the illicit romp at the facility.

The unit houses kids aged 11-18 with social, emotional and behavioural issues from across the UK.

A Care Inspectorate spokesman said: “We were notified of an incident of concern in June and have been in close contact.

“We are satisfied that the service has investigated this appropriately.”

Victim Rhys Reynolds, then 26, suffered 36 injuries - including bleeding to the brain and facial fractures - after being chased by the six-strong gang on Hogmanay 2018.

Judge Gordon Liddle branded the attack as “cowardly and vicious” and said Rhys was “fortunate to be alive” following the assault.

The six thugs were caged for a total of 47 years but had their sentences cut on appeal earlier this year.

The Scottish Prison Service does not comment on individuals.

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