Craig Windsor, a former figure in Glasgow's gangland scene, has recently admitted to a history of shoplifting following his involvement in various criminal activities. The 42-year-old, previously notable for claiming substantial income through a protection racket, appeared at Airdrie Sheriff Court on Wednesday to face six charges of shoplifting.
Windsor's criminal history includes being questioned by police in relation to the 2010 murder of fellow gangster Kevin "Gerbil" Carroll, with firearms linked to the case discovered near Windsor's boxing gym in Lanarkshire. Authorities had reportedly warned him on multiple occasions—at least ten—that his life was in danger due to potential conflicts with rival criminals.
In his autobiography titled 'From Beechwood to Hollywood', Windsor recounted his former life of crime, stating that his security company had once earned him thousands of pounds weekly from businesses he claimed to protect. He recalled, “There was so much money I didn’t know what to do with it. I used to go to Blackpool to spend some of it. I bought Rolex watches, nice gear and cars like a white Mercedes with blacked out windows. I was changing my cars all the time.”
Despite his previous success, Windsor's financial situation deteriorated, leading to legal troubles. In a 2021 court case, he narrowly avoided a prison sentence after admitting to fraudulently claiming nearly £10,000 from HM Revenue and Customs. He submitted false invoices for products he hadn’t actually purchased, resulting in a three-year supervision order and an order to repay £9,717.
During the recent court proceedings, it was noted that Windsor had maintained good behaviour since his last appearance in January, leading the presiding Sheriff Derek Livingston to comment on his apparent progress. The sheriff described the shoplifting as a serious "course of conduct" but acknowledged Windsor's efforts to keep himself out of trouble.
As part of his sentencing, Windsor was ordered to complete 50 hours of unpaid community service. The case continues to highlight the complexities of Windsor's transition from a life steeped in crime to attempts at rehabilitation.
Source: Noah Wire Services