Convicted drug dealer jailed for torching man’s car in Wishaw

A convicted drug dealer has been sentenced to 18 months in prison for setting fire to a man’s car in Wishaw. Kyle Kerr, 34, stated that the act was in retaliation for a serious assault that he had experienced. Earlier in June, Kerr had received a two-year jail term for his involvement in cocaine supply. The police had discovered three bags of cocaine worth £2,040 at his residence in Maxton Crescent, Wishaw, in June 2023.

Additionally, during a separate incident in Kirknethan, Netherton, in August the same year, Kerr was found with cocaine valued at £460 while he was on bail awaiting trial for the drug-related charges. When approached by the police in a car park, Kerr tried to flee but was apprehended after a brief pursuit. Despite being on bail for these drug offenses, Kerr set a Mercedes car on fire on February 29 in Caledonian Road, Wishaw. He pleaded guilty to the charge of wilful fireraising at Hamilton Sheriff Court.

According to the prosecution, a witness observed Kerr pouring a liquid from a bottle onto the car, resulting in it being consumed by flames. The fire department confirmed that petrol was used, causing extensive damage to the vehicle. Kerr’s defence lawyer claimed that Kerr was provoked by a serious assault inflicted on him by the car owner prior to the incident.

Kerr’s criminal record, which includes past convictions for fireraising and violence, was acknowledged by his lawyer as being detrimental to his case. Observers noted that Kerr’s actions showed a pattern of criminal behaviour despite being on bail for serious charges. The judge sentenced Kerr to imprisonment for 18 months for the car arson incident.

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In summary, Kyle Kerr’s reckless actions in setting fire to a car as an act of revenge highlight the consequences of engaging in retaliatory behaviours. Despite facing prior convictions for drug-related offenses, Kerr continued down a path of criminal behaviour, resulting in further legal consequences and imprisonment. Residents are encouraged to utilise local news resources like the Lanarkshire Live app to stay informed about community developments and events.