Gun menace off Liverpool streets as North Wales man locks up for 14 years
Deadly cache found in Toxteth raid
Ross Smith, 44, with no fixed address and originally from North Wales, has been slammed with over 14 years behind bars for firearms offences. Cops struck gold during a raid on a Toxteth property on Netherby Street last September, uncovering a terrifying arsenal.
The haul included a Skorpion sub-machine gun loaded with five magazines, a live hand grenade, stacks of ammunition, and loose rounds – a deadly cocktail that could have wreaked havoc.
Serious charges and stiff sentence
Smith faced the courts charged with possession of an explosive substance for unlawful use, possession of a banned weapon, and illegal possession of firearm ammunition. Liverpool Crown Court didn’t hold back, sentencing him to 14 years and three months in the dock on September 28.
Cops vow to crack down on gun crime
Detective Chief Inspector Paul McVeigh from the Firearms Investigation Team hailed the seizure.
“These weapons have devastating potential. Removing them from the streets protects our communities,” he said. “We remain committed to targeting organised crime tied to guns and drugs.”
He urged locals to come forward with any tips about dangerous weapons or suspicious individuals to help keep the city safe.
Community urged to help police fight armed crime
Merseyside Police called on anyone with information on weapon use or storage to message @MerPolCC or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
“Working together with the public is our best chance to root out violent criminals,” added McVeigh.
