Ex-Police Officer Downloaded Gun Manual and Had 3D Printer Access

A former police officer, Zoe Watts, had a court hearing. The hearing got delayed because of indictment changes and happened virtually on February 13th at Lincoln Crown Court. She was supposed to enter a plea at this hearing.

The prosecutor, Jonathon Dee, wanted to change the indictment. The court heard Ms. Watts downloaded firearm specs and had a 3D printer and other parts. The weapon found could fire if assembled correctly. Dee said she often made illegal weapons.

Ms. Watts arrived late, attending from HMP Peterborough. Her lawyer, Stuart Lody, expected her in person and called the case “complicated.” Watts wore an orange polka-dot dress on the video call. She said a “medical emergency” caused her delay.

Judge Hirst addressed the case changes, noting that the gun wasn’t a prohibited firearm as it was. The prosecution wants to amend the indictment, claiming she tried to make a prohibited weapon. He mentioned purchased components, noting these could turn the gun into a working weapon.

The prosecution hasn’t shared this evidence yet, and the judge ordered them to submit it by February 20th. He then stated they wouldn’t accomplish much that day. He wants the defense statement by April 3rd.

If Ms. Watts moves to Surrey, she may not attend in person. The judge adjourned the hearing until April 4th and said the trial, if any, is set for June 9th.