Gun and Drugs Sting Nets Welwyn Man Five Years
Tashan Honeygan-Matthew, 32, from Welwyn Garden City, was slapped with a hefty prison sentence at St Albans Crown Court yesterday. The court handed down five years for possession of a prohibited revolver and three years for heroin possession with intent to supply.
Jury Unanimous After Five-Day Trial
The Gloucester Close resident also got concurrent sentences: three years for holding criminal property (£2,000 cash), plus one year each for ammunition possession and cocaine supply charges. The verdict came after a five-day trial, where the jury was unanimous.
Public Tip-Off Uncovers Loaded Gun and Drugs
It all kicked off on 12 April 2020 when a vigilant member of the public spotted an ice cream tub stuffed with cash and drugs hidden in bushes off Boundary Lane. Nearby, officers found a small coffee pot also hiding more drugs.
When police arrived, they discovered a loaded revolver jammed with four rounds right alongside the stash.
Arrest in Tower Hamlets and Wide-Ranging Probe
Quick forensic work named Honeygan-Matthew as the prime suspect. He was nabbed a month later in Tower Hamlets, London. The £2,000 cash was linked to criminal activity, and the drugs were confirmed as heroin and cocaine.
“The seizure of this gun means that very serious harm has now been prevented,” said Welwyn Hatfield Chief Inspector Kash Hussain. “Thanks to the public’s keen eye, we’ve got a major result. I hope this sends a strong message to anyone dabbling in firearms crime.”
“Thankfully, incidents of this nature are rare here. A huge thanks to all teams involved—from Local Crime Unit to Intelligence and Financial Investigators.”
Spot Something Suspicious? Speak Up!
If you see shady dealings, report online, chat with police via their web chat, or ring 101. For totally anonymous tips, call Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 or use their untraceable online form.
