Summary
Thames Valley Police conducted a search of our client’s property where numerous firearms and offensive weapons were found. He was later invited for a voluntary interview and released under investigation in relation to the possession of firearms and offensive weapons. Managing Partner Nick Titchener represented our client on a privately funded basis where he was able to secure our client a conditional caution, avoiding court proceedings entirely.
Details of the Case
Following a search of our client’s address, Thames Valley Police found over 200 firearms and related weapons. He was later invited to attend a voluntary interview at Banbury Police Station.
The seized items included firearms such as air rifles and shotguns, illegal weapons such as a zombie-style knife, ninja stars and knuckle dusters as well as pepper spray, electric shock devices and crossbows.
Given the number of items seized and the potentially severe consequences, our client sought to instruct Managing Partner Nick Titchener on a privately funded basis due to his expertise in handling complex and serious cases.
Our Defence
Nick contacted the investigating officer ahead of our client’s interview and requested a list of the seized items as well as the offences for which our client was being investigated. These offences were:
- Possessing an offensive weapon in a private place
- Possessing a weapon for the discharge of noxious liquid/gas/electrical incapacitation device
- Failure to comply with conditions of a shotgun certificate
During the voluntary interview, our client provided a detailed prepared statement which aimed to provide an explanation and account for all the items seized. He stated that he held valid certificates for the firearms and that these licenced firearms were always stored securely.
He accepted possession of the prohibited items and that he should not have kept them but maintained that this was purely through oversight rather than criminal intent.
Outcome
Given the number of prohibited items, our client was at risk of a severe sentence if the case were to proceed to court. If he were to be convicted, our client would have been at risk of receiving a prison sentence of potentially up to 10 years.
However, while the Police were satisfied that there was sufficient evidence to justify a prosecution, since our client admitted the offence, they decided to impose a conditional caution rather than progressing the matter to court.
A conditional caution is an alternative to prosecution and requires the individual to comply with certain conditions. These conditions may be rehabilitative, reparative or in the form of a financial penalty. While a conditional caution is not a formal conviction, it is an admission of guilt and will appear on the individual’s criminal record.
This was an excellent outcome for our client considering the lengthy sentence he may have been subject to if convicted. Our client was relieved with this result and grateful to Nick for his expertise and support. Were it not for Nick’s guidance and the detail given in our client’s prepared statement, our client may have faced a far more serious outcome.
Looking for a specialist firearm solicitor?
Being charged with a firearm offence in the UK is extremely serious and can result in severe and lengthy punishment. At Lawtons, we house a team of experts who will support you throughout the legal proceedings and ensure that you are met with the best possible outcome. With over 200 years of collective experience, you can rely on us to fight for your future every step of the way.
If you or someone you know is facing a firearm offence, do not hesitate – get in touch with a member of our specialist team today.
