Full Breakdown
Former Glasgow Gangster Paul Ferris Dies at 62
By Drooid · · How we work
The final chapter
Paul Ferris, former enforcer for Glasgow crime boss Arthur “Godfather” Thompson Sr., died on Tuesday, October 6 2026, at Queen Elizabeth University Hospital after a short illness. Photographer Brian Anderson, who first met Ferris in 2002, announced the death on Facebook.
Background and context
Born in Blackhill, Glasgow, on November 10 1963, Ferris entered the underworld as a teenager and, by 19, was a debt-collector for Thompson. He was linked to the 1991 killing of Thompson’s son, Arthur “Fat Boy” Thompson Jr.
In 1992 Ferris was tried for that murder in what was then the longest criminal trial in Scottish history—54 days, 300 witnesses. He was acquitted of murder and related charges; the case relied heavily on “supergrass” testimony.
After serving a seven-year sentence for gun-running convictions (1998–2002), Ferris turned to writing. His debut, *The Ferris Conspiracy* (2001), co-authored with Reg McKay, was adapted into the 2013 BAFTA-winning film *The Wee Man*. He later published four more titles about his criminal past.
Data and statistics
- Trial length: 54 days, 300 witnesses, cost ? £4 million.
- Gun-running conviction (1998): sentenced to 10 years, reduced on appeal to 7 years.
- Age at death: 62.
Official statements & responses
- Former Scottish Crime and Drug Enforcement Agency director Graeme Pearson said witnesses were often intimidated, which may have affected the 1992 trial outcome.
- Russell Findlay, leader of the Scottish Conservative Party, warned against “eulogising” Ferris, reminding the public of his victims.
Verbatim quotes
- “I would say I was on trial here the way you are going. That is the dock, this is the witness box.” — Arthur Thompson
- “Ferris never denied that he was no stranger to violence. He enjoyed the criminal life as a younger man and made it a career objective.” — Graeme Pearson
Timeline
- Nov 10 1963 – Birth in Blackhill, Glasgow.
- Early 1980s – Joins Thompson Sr.’s gang.
- Aug 18 1991 – Thompson Jr. shot dead; Ferris arrested.
- 1992 – Acquitted after the longest Scottish criminal trial to date.
- 1998 – Convicted of firearms offences; sentenced to 10 years (reduced to 7).
- 2001 – Publishes *The Ferris Conspiracy* while incarcerated.
- Jan 15 2013 – *The Wee Man* film released; Ferris appears at a promotional photocall.
- Oct 6 2026 – Death announced.
Why it matters
Ferris’s life illustrates the shift from gangland violence to media-driven notoriety. His death renews debate over how former criminals are remembered and the legacy of historic gang feuds in Scotland.