Wayne Barnes admitted to possessing a prohibited firearm & ammunition. Sentencing is set for March 20.
He appeared in Durham Crown Court via video while currently in HMP Doncaster. Barnes is 40 years old and admitted possessing a prohibited firearm, specifically a slam gun less than 60cm long.
He admitted possessing the gun while prohibited, as he previously served over three years. He also admitted possessing prohibited ammunition, which was 15 shotgun cartridges, 12-gauge.
The police visit to his home on January 23, at The Haven in Langley Park, led to the charges.
Judge Tom Mitchell reviewed a plea from Barnes’ lawyers, who will argue against the minimum five-year sentence. This sentence stems from Firearms Offences guidelines introduced in 2021.
Martin Scarborough, representing Barnes, stated the plea explains possession and details how Barnes obtained the items. Judge Mitchell, who oversees military Courts Martial, said he knows this legislation well, believing the plea is about mitigation, addressing possessing the weapons.
Judge Mitchell adjourned the hearing, which will resume in three to four weeks. The sentencing hearing will last 45 minutes and will be back at the court.
The image is from Northumbria Police. The judge addressed Barnes directly, stating he will stay in custody until the hearing and will get credit for his plea.
The judge said the eventual sentence is for the future, and another judge will decide the overall sentence. The case outcome is inevitable, and he will receive a long prison sentence.
The sentencing hearing will occur on March 20 at the court.