A man has been given a 24 month prison sentence suspended for 24 months after he was found guilty of possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.
Darrell Edwards, aged 43, of Fairview, Highworth, was sentenced at Swindon Crown Court on 19 October.
On 12 March, a male taxi driver was driving Edwards and a woman in Royal Wootton Bassett High Street when the woman vomited in the cab. When the driver pulled over, Edwards got out of the vehicle and then returned with a firearm which he used to threaten the taxi driver. He then fired the weapon – an air rifle – at the vehicle, which fortunately caused no damage.
As well as the suspended sentence, Edwards was ordered to pay £1,000 compensation and 100 hours of unpaid work. The air rifle has been seized by police
Acting Police Sergeant Steve Carroll said: “Violent behaviour of this nature will not be tolerated and will always be investigated robustly.
“Edwards’ actions left the victim feeling incredibly scared and shaken up – fortunately nobody was injured but I have no doubt that Edwards’ behaviour continues to have a negative impact on the victim.
“Due to the detailed description of Edwards provided by the victim, officers were able to attend the scene and locate him swiftly ensuring no other members of the public were at risk.
“Incidents like this are very rare in our community and I would like to reassure residents that we will do all that we can to ensure offenders like Edwards are put before the courts.”
