Martin Ready, a 43-year-old man, has been indefinitely detained in a hospital following a conviction for plotting to murder Darren Harty. The case, meticulously investigated by Police Scotland, revealed a chilling descent into the depths of the dark web.
The court heard how Ready attempted to commission a hit on Harty, utilizing cryptocurrency to fund the sinister arrangement. His actions weren’t impulsive; they were calculated steps taken within a disturbing digital underworld.
Judge Lady Hood, after careful consideration of psychiatric reports, issued both a compulsion order and a restriction order. This means Ready will remain hospitalized indefinitely, receiving treatment while posing no immediate threat to the public.
Dr. Sivakumar Appan, a forensic psychiatrist treating Ready at the Rowanbank Clinic in Glasgow, testified to the necessity of the restriction order. He emphasized the significant risk of “serious harm” should Ready be released, particularly given his lack of insight into his own condition.
Dr. Appan explained that Ready fundamentally doesn’t believe he is unwell, and would likely refuse medication crucial to managing his delusional beliefs. These delusions, the court learned, centered around both Harty and perceived criminal activity in the Lanarkshire area.
The prosecution detailed Ready’s diagnosed delusional disorder, highlighting the availability of treatment that could alleviate his symptoms and prevent further deterioration. Without intervention, the risk to both Ready and the public remained substantial.
The two men had a past acquaintance, occasionally meeting at a local pub, but hadn’t interacted for years before Ready’s disturbing plot unfolded. This seemingly distant connection fueled a dangerous obsession that culminated in a calculated attempt to orchestrate a murder.
Lady Hood acknowledged the “considerable degree of planning” involved in the offense, underscoring its gravity. She stated her conviction that the compulsion and restriction orders were essential for safeguarding the public from future harm.
In addition to the indefinite detention, a non-harassment order was issued, explicitly prohibiting Ready from any contact with Darren Harty. The court’s decision prioritizes Harty’s safety and offers a measure of protection from further distress.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers lurking within the dark web and the critical importance of mental health treatment for individuals struggling with delusional beliefs. It highlights the complex intersection of technology, mental illness, and the pursuit of justice.
