Prisoner tried to murder inmate months after attacking man with blade

A convict tried to kill a fellow prisoner, having attacked another inmate months earlier.

Adam Nicholson, 31, was caught on CCTV carrying out the assaults while behind bars at HMP Edinburgh.

The murder bid occurred on July 2, 2025, while a number of prisoners were sitting or walking around one of the wings at the time.

Footage played at the High Court in Glasgow showed Nicholson initially pass his target, Ryan Kerr, before suddenly stabbing him in the buttocks.

Prosecutor Eilidh Robertson said: “Nicholson turned to face Kerr, hiding his hands behind his back and moved the knife from his left to his right hand.

“There was a struggle and Kerr fell to the ground. Nicholson continued to strike him on the head and body while an unarmed Kerr tried to kick out in an effort to get him off.”

A team of prison officers raced to break up the incident.

Kerr was found to be “bleeding significantly” from a number of wounds.

He was rushed to hospital for injuries to his chest, arm and thigh.

Nicholson was stopped on the wing, dropping his knife around the same time.

He had earlier attacked Jason Liddle at the same prison on October 13, 2024.

The CCTV saw Nicholson turn on Liddle and grab him, having sneaked up from behind.

Miss Roberston: “Liddle backed away, Nicholson lunged and swung his right hand.

“There was a struggle with Nicholson continually swiping at him.”

The makeshift weapon was found to be a toothbrush with blades attached.

Liddle was badly hurt with his left earlobe sliced in two.

Nicholson admitted to charges of attempted murder and aggravated assault.

He was handcuffed in the dock during the hearing.