A man has been sentenced to five years behind bars after being discovered with a homemade firearm while travelling on a train bound for London.
Off-duty officer's sharp observation leads to arrest
The incident unfolded on 1 March last year when an off-duty Metropolitan Police officer noticed a passenger, later identified as Jamie Young, 45, of Longfield, Kent, taking drugs onboard the carriage. Police were alerted and intercepted the train at St Albans station, where Young was removed and searched.
During the search, officers discovered a staple gun that had been converted into a firearm. It was concealed inside a pocket of Young's suitcase. He was promptly arrested on suspicion of firearm offences. The search also led to the seizure of the suspected weapon, two mobile phones, and a small quantity of crack cocaine.
Viable weapon and damning phone evidence
Forensic specialists later examined the modified tool and confirmed it was a viable firearm, equipped with a barrel capable of firing live ammunition. This classification significantly elevated the seriousness of the offence.
Investigators examining Young's phones uncovered compelling and damning evidence. This included a video showing him test-firing the homemade gun in a field. Perhaps even more brazenly, they also found a selfie of Young posing with the converted weapon.
Guilty plea and sentencing at crown court
During police interviews, Young claimed the firearm had been placed in his suitcase months before the journey and he was unaware it was still there. This defence was not accepted in light of the evidence.
Earlier this year, Jamie Young pleaded guilty to both Manufacturing a Firearm and Possession of a Firearm. He appeared at St Albans Crown Court for sentencing on 8 December, where a judge imposed a five-year prison term.
Detective Constable Agata Barker of the British Transport Police commented on the case, stating: “Thanks to the sharp actions of the off-duty officer travelling on the train that day, a lethal weapon has been removed from criminal circulation.”
She added: “Only Jamie Young knows what he planned to do with his homemade gun, but if it was used against someone it could have resulted in fatal consequences. From material found on his phones it’s clear he was enamoured with his creation. And now, following our investigation, he has a long stint behind bars to rethink his interests.”
DC Barker concluded with a warning: “Anyone carrying weapons on the railway should know that we will find them, and we will ensure they face justice.”
