Conman's gangster lie to take scared pal's wages

Fantasist told victim her motor would be torched

- MICHAEL MCQUAID

A FANTASIST forced a woman to hand him her wages after claiming the cash belonged dangerous criminals.

Derek Smart had warned his frightened victim her car would be torched by "people you don't mess around with" unless the £2500 was paid.

But a court heard Smart, 33, of Wishaw, made up the story as he needed the cash to prop up his struggling central heating business.

Now he could be jailed after admitting threatening or abusive behaviour.