The sister of a man who died after falling from a window while allegedly trying to escape a violent situation has called for legal reforms following an inquiry into his death. Jamie Forbes, 37, died in January 2023 at Elphinstone Court in Aberdeen after reportedly being held against his will and assaulted in a flat on the 12th floor.

During the Fatal Accident Inquiry (FAI) held at Aberdeen Sheriff Court, evidence revealed that emergency services were contacted but failed to secure Forbes’s safety before the fatal incident. Forbes’s sister, Lyndsay-Anne Forbes, expressed deep anguish following testimony that described her brother’s cries for help and attempts to communicate the flat number to those outside.

“It is critical there is change,” she said, urging the introduction of what she referred to as "Jamie’s Law." This proposed legislation would mandate that police officers remain at the scene until a person reported to be in danger is located and secured.

The inquiry further detailed that Forbes had been detained and assaulted by Lee Smith, who subsequently pleaded guilty to culpable homicide. Smith was sentenced to eight years in prison at the High Court in Edinburgh.

The Fatal Accident Inquiry has been adjourned, with closing submissions scheduled for August. Representatives from the Scottish Government have been contacted for comment on the matter.