Former doctor jailed over guns and hit list

A former doctor has been jailed for 12 years for building a stock of guns with the intent to endanger life.

Martin Watt was found with three sub-machine guns, two pistols and 1,500 live cartridges at a property in Cumbernauld, North Lanarkshire, last year.

The 62-year-old had lost his job at Monklands Hospital in 2012 after disciplinary hearings and his marriage broke down around the same time, the High Court at Glasgow heard.

He had compiled a list of names and addresses of some colleagues involved in the disciplinary process, titled “bad guys”, and also carried out shooting practice.

The Crown Office said there was “a clear plan in place to carry out a dreadful event”.

Watt maintained it was only a way to make himself feel better, but the judge Lady Stacey said the jury rejected that when finding him guilty last month.

Defence QC John Scott urged the judge to take Watt’s age and public service with the NHS into account.

Passing sentence, Lady Stacey said to Watt: “I entirely accept you have served the community in the past.

“It is sad to see a man who has held the positions you have in this situation.

“Nothing has been said that explains why you acquired a stock of weapons and ammunition.

“The jury found you had them with intent to endanger life. I take the view you represent a danger to members of the public.”

Watt was given an extended sentence with 12 years in prison and a further three years of supervision.

A Serious Crime Prevention Order was also granted restricting Watt’s internet use, firearms ownership, travel and visits to NHS facilities outside of emergencies for five years after his release from custody.

Weapons stash: Martin Watt.