Former Glasgow underworld figure, enforcer, and author Paul Ferris has died at the age of 62 following a short illness. Ferris passed away on Tuesday night at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow, having been admitted to the facility on Sunday.
Nicknamed “The Wee Man,” Ferris rose to widespread public notoriety in the 1980s and 1990s. Growing up in the tough Blackhill area of Glasgow, he climbed through the criminal ranks to become a feared enforcer for Glasgow crime godfather Arthur Thompson Snr.
High-Profile Trials and Legal Battles
Ferris first captured major public attention in 1992 when he stood trial at the High Court in Glasgow for the murder of Arthur Thompson Jnr, the son of crime boss Arthur Thompson Snr. Ferris and the younger Thompson, also known as “Fat Boy,” had previously worked together before falling out after Ferris accused him of setting him up.
The ensuing legal battle became the longest-running trial in Scottish criminal history at the time, lasting 54 days, involving approximately 300 witnesses, and costing an estimated £4 million. Ferris was ultimately acquitted, famously being filmed smirking on the steps outside the court following the verdict.
Six years later, Ferris faced prosecution again, this time at the Old Bailey in London. In 1998, he was convicted of conspiracy to sell or transfer prohibited weapons, dealing in firearms, and possessing explosives. He received a 10-year prison sentence, which was subsequently reduced to seven years. He was released from prison in 2001.
Transition to Author and Filmmaking
Following his release from prison, Ferris maintained that he had turned his back on criminality. Over the subsequent decades, he transitioned into a legitimate businessman with interests in security and construction, alongside establishing a successful career as an author.
During his time behind bars, Ferris penned his first book, The Ferris Conspiracy. He went on to write five books documenting his past criminal life and experiences. His life story inspired the 2013 biographical crime film The Wee Man, in which Ferris was portrayed by Line of Duty star Martin Compston.
Reflecting on his post-prison life in an interview with the Daily Record in July, Ferris defended his legitimate status:
“I have either been an absolute criminal genius for the last 25 years or I have done nothing wrong. Take your pick.”
Legacy and Condolences
A close family friend commented on his passing, stating that his death came as an unexpected blow:
“News of his death will come as a shock to many who knew him throughout the different chapters of his life. Paul went straight for 25 years and wrote several best-selling books. Our sincere condolences go to Paul’s family, friends, and loved ones at this extremely difficult time.”
Ferris is survived by his five children. Friends and associates have noted that none of his children followed him into a life of crime.
Complete Biography Profile: Paul Ferris
To fully understand the life and historical context of Paul Ferris, the following profile outlines his background, career milestones, bibliography, and frequently asked questions regarding his complex life in Glasgow’s criminal underworld.
Quick Facts Table
- Full Name: Paul Ferris
- Date of Birth: 1963
- Date of Death: Tuesday (Age 62)
- Place of Death: Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow
- Nickname: “The Wee Man”
- Known For: Gangland enforcer, author, subject of the 2013 film The Wee Man
- Key Convictions: Conspiracy to sell or transfer weapons, firearms dealing, explosives possession (1998)
Frequently Asked Questions About Paul Ferris
When and where did Paul Ferris die?
Paul Ferris died on Tuesday at the age of 62 after suffering a short illness. He had been admitted to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow on Sunday.
What was Paul Ferris’s role in Glasgow’s underworld?
In the 1980s and 1990s, Ferris rose to prominence as a feared enforcer and gunman for Glasgow crime boss Arthur Thompson Snr. He became a central figure in the city’s gangland wars before eventually stepping away from crime.
Was Paul Ferris convicted of the murder of Arthur Thompson Jnr?
No. In 1992, Ferris was acquitted of the murder of Arthur Thompson Jnr following a 54-day trial at the High Court in Glasgow, which was the longest-running criminal trial in Scottish history at the time.
What prison sentence did Paul Ferris serve?
In 1998, the Old Bailey in London convicted Ferris of firearms and explosives charges, sentencing him to 10 years in prison. The sentence was later reduced to seven years, and he was released in 2001.
What books and films were based on Paul Ferris’s life?
Ferris wrote several bestselling books, beginning with The Ferris Conspiracy written while he was in prison, followed by several other titles detailing his life. His early life and criminal career were also adapted into the 2013 biographical film The Wee Man, starring Martin Compston.
