Birmingham man found with loaded gun during visit to probation officer is jailed

A man has been jailed for five years after cops found a loaded gun in his manbag – while he was going to see his probation officer.

Jerome Powell was stopped on Bristol Road in Selly Oak on 16 February and arrested after firearms officers searched him and seized the weapon. He has now been jailed.

Powell admitted to having a loaded revolver while being detained and told a sergeant at the custody desk there was a bullet inside the gun.

The 26-year-old, of Portland Road in Birmingham, was charged with possession of a firearm. He pled guilty and was sentenced to five years in jail at Birmingham Crown Court on Wednesday (20 April).

Chief Inspector Leanne Lowe, from the WMP Regional Organised Crime Unit, said: “He may not have used the weapon, but it’s an offence to be carrying one and I’m pleased Powell’s been put away for his actions.

“Youth violence needs to stop, a key part of that is prevention work as well as intervention and removing dangerous weapons from our streets.

“We will continue to intercept and disrupt criminals who think it’s acceptable to carry guns and knives around.

“We are also always looking at the bigger picture, targeting organised crime groups and working alongside communities to prevent young people from becoming involved in gun crime .”

West Midlands Police have urged members of the public who suspect anyone might be linked to firearms to contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.