Firearms seized on allegations alone, then wrong man targeted

A gamekeeper’s son from the Forest of Dean remains without his shotguns months after Gloucestershire Police allegedly acted on harassment allegations and confused him with a murder suspect of the same name.

Jack Edmunds claims police initially seized his firearms when his ex-girlfriend made harassment allegations against him following their break-up. “All somebody has to do is pick up the phone without evidence and the police act,” he told Fieldsports Channel.

Officers allegedly provided no receipt and refused to explain the confiscation at his Gloucestershire home.

However, things took a turn when they later sent Mr Edmunds a letter stating: “In June 2023 you were involved, as a witness, in an incident whereby a friend was fatally stabbed. Initially arrested as a suspect, whilst in custody you disclosed your personal struggles with alcohol abuse and mental health concerns.”

Mistaken identity

It transpired that the letter was referring to a different Jack Edmunds, approximately 10 years younger, who lived a few miles away and has since died.

Mr Edmunds filed a complaint five months ago but claims he has received only a call citing staff shortages. His guns have not been returned due to the original harassment allegations, which he denies. Edmunds plans to reapply for his certificate next year.

Gloucestershire Police’s response

A Gloucestershire Police spokesperson told Shooting Times: “A complaint has been made to the Force about this case and therefore we cannot go into further detail at this time.

“Speaking more broadly about firearms licence holders in general, a certificate can be revoked for a number of different reasons – ranging from domestic abuse allegations to driving while under the influence of alcohol.

“Firearms licensing teams in police forces are responsible for deciding who is suitable to keep a firearm without endangering public safety. While the majority of certificate holders comply with requirements, the public would expect police to ensure certificate holders are held to the highest standards, as public safety is paramount.”

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