John Lloyd-Richards led Shona Probert in the sentence of two Defendants for Conspiracy to Transfer Firearms and Ammunition, Conspiracy to Possess a Firearm with Intent to cause fear of Violence and associated drugs offences.
In late 2020 and early 2021, Jason James and Emrick Matthews were involved in converting and selling viable firearms in the West Midlands. They also manufactured compatible ammunition to sell with the firearms. The vast majority of the evidence centred around WhatsApp messages and voice notes which shone a light on their firearms business; alongside a desire to meat out retribution on an unknown Polish person. It also showed a clear desire to expand their business in the future by purchasing a press to manufacture ammunition with greater speed and precision.
Jason James was also sentenced for dealing Class A drugs and cannabis cultivation. Matthews was further sentenced for possession of the following: a bladed article; cannabis; and counterfeit currency.
At the sentencing hearing on 24th May 2024 at Birmingham Crown Court, Jason James received a sentence of 13 years and 3 months’ imprisonment.
Emrick Matthews was sentenced to 10 years and 6 months’ imprisonment.
