Liverpool gang turned blank firing pistols into real guns, selling them via Snapchat. 6 members involved, sentenced in Manchester.
The gang frequently contacted stores, expressing their interest in purchasing blank firing pistols. They reached out to shops not only near Liverpool, but also in areas like Bury, the Midlands, Yorkshire, and Norwich. Daniel Hughes, based in Manchester, allowed the gang to use his home as a gun lab, where they converted the blank firing pistols into functional firearms.
They favored Glock and Beretta replicas, models known to be appealing to criminals. As a result of their actions, Donald, Hughes, Simmons, Baker, and Edwards were sentenced last week in Manchester. Elijah Heart is scheduled to learn her fate in May.
Addressing the criminals, the judge emphasized that they were fully aware of their roles and the lethal potential of the modified guns. She noted that their plan involved selling these weapons for profit.
The gang contacted 24 different stores, seeking to purchase the necessary supplies. While some stores required identification, others maintained records of sales, which aided the police investigation. Leveraging CCTV footage and ledgers, the police were able to identify the individuals responsible for purchasing the pistols.
Mobile phone data played a crucial role in tracking the gang’s movements. Donald enlisted the help of Heart and Baker, along with his former partner and cousin, to purchase pistols between June 2020 and May 2021. During a raid on Hughes’ residence, police discovered a real handgun and an empty magazine.
Simmons used Snapchat to advertise the guns, with one message mentioning a “Glock 17” and another simply stating “Glock 17 bro.” Police surveillance captured a meeting between Donald and a customer from Birmingham, after which both individuals proceeded to Hughes’ house.
The judge identified Donald as the leader of the plot, with Simmons and Hughes as key members. Baker and Edwards were found to have played lesser roles in the operation. With the exception of Heart and Edwards, all the defendants pleaded guilty to converting and selling guns illegally.
Following a trial, Heart and Edwards were found guilty. Hughes also admitted to possessing a gun and ammunition without the necessary permissions, and was further charged with dangerous driving.
Donald received an 18-year prison sentence, while Hughes and Simmons were each sentenced to 15 years. Baker was handed an eight-year sentence, and Edwards received a 12-year sentence.
Heart is scheduled to receive her sentence on May 7th. Having been on bail, she is now in custody and likely to face imprisonment.
Donald’s lawyer stated that his client feels remorseful for his actions. Hughes’ lawyer attributed his client’s involvement to cocaine addiction. Simmons’ lawyer claimed his client showed remorse while Baker’s lawyer cited an alcohol problem, and Edwards’ lawyer maintained his client’s denial of involvement.