A thug set his ex-partner’s BMW on fire in the middle of the night causing £22,000 worth of damage.
Anthony Watson burnt the hair from his hand when he set his former partner’s car on fire in the small hours of February 18 last year in Paisley’s Jura Road.
Watson, who has spent multiple periods in custody, appeared in the dock at Paisley Sheriff Court from HMP Low Moss in Bishopbriggs, East Dunbartonshire and was ordered to return there for three months after admitting the wilful fire-raising attack.
Prosecutor Dana Barclay told the court: “Around 1.45am, the complainer’s CCTV camera showed a male dressed in black clothing and wearing a balaclava.
“The male, now known as the accused, was carrying a plastic fuel can and approaching the complainer’s black BMW.
“The CCTV captured the accused set alight an item and throw it onto the car’s windscreen before making off on foot.
“The complainer looked out her window and saw her car to be alight with the alarm also sounding.
“A neighbour also observed the accused running away clutching his hand, which was believed to be a possible injury. Police were contacted and attended.
“The watch commander confirmed the fire was wilful and the CCTV was viewed by police officers.
“The accused was traced at a nearby Travelodge hotel with a swollen hand and the hair appeared to be singed off. He was arrested and taken to Helen Street police office. He stated, ‘I wasn’t there’ when cautioned and charged.”
It was confirmed by Ms Barclay and the defence that the value of damage was £22,000.
Watson’s defence lawyer told the court how his client had previously spent the equivalent of 300 days in remand for this offence.
The case had previously gone to trial but was deserted. Watson was later then reindicted.
Watson’s solicitor said his client had little recollection of what happened after consuming alcohol and drugs. He added: “Mr Watson understands his ex-partner has moved on, as has he and he is in a new relationship.”
Sentencing, Sheriff Bruce Erroch KC commented: “You have accepted responsibility.”
Sheriff Erroch KC jailed Watson for three months and imposed a non-harassment order for five years prohibiting him from contacting or approaching his ex-partner.
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