A PRISONER'S claim that HMP Glenochil staff breached his human rights by confiscating a "drug soaked" letter from him has been dismissed by a judge.

David Gilday took his case to the Court of Session – Scotland's supreme civil court – after a greeting card was seized by staff at the Clacks prison in March 2019.

According to documents published by the Scottish Court and Tribunal Service: "[Gilday] has never been allowed to read the card since it was taken from him before he was able to do so.

"Nor has he been provided with a photocopy of the card."

Gilday, who is serving a number of sentences of imprisonment amounting to 18 years and five months, claimed: "The seizure and retention of the card constituted an unwarranted interference with his rights."

However, in a ruling published earlier this month, Lord Pentland dismissed the claim.

He noted the letter was screened by a drug search dog, which gave a positive indication that the card contained a drug.

He also noted it is common for drugs to be smuggled into prisons by lacing them into items such as card, letters, children's drawings and clothing.

On that basis, he found it was reasonable for prison staff to withhold the card because there was a need to address the issue of drug use in prison.

And it was also noted that, in any case, the letter would be returned to Gilday – now imprisoned at HMP Addiewell – when he completes his sentence.