Crime boss turned author Paul Ferris dies aged 62

Former crime boss and author Paul Ferris has passed away at the age of 62, according to initial reports. The Glasgow native succumbed to a brief illness on Tuesday while under treatment at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital. Brian Anderson, a photographer, conveyed the news on Facebook, expressing shock at the sudden loss. Anderson detailed Ferris' life journey, emphasizing the author's 25-year commitment to crime before turning his life around.

Ferris served time after associating with Arthur "The Godfather" Thompson Sr., later clearing himself of the 1991 murder of Thompson Jr.'s son, Arthur "Fat Boy" Thompson Jr. The crime boss retaliated against Ferris, leading to the untimely deaths of two of Ferris' friends on the day of his son's funeral. Ferris' criminal activities came to light in 1998 when he was convicted of arms trafficking offenses at the Old Bailey in London.

While incarcerated, he co-authored "The Ferris Conspiracy" with Reg McKay, which later inspired the 2013 film "The Wee Man." Ferris' experience with the film was deeply emotional, prompting him to step out during the screening to gather his thoughts amidst a cascade of childhood memories and intense emotions.