Erith Man Jailed After Six-Hour Armed Police Stand-Off
A tense six-hour siege in Plumstead Cemetery ended with an Erith man behind bars. Jack Pullen, 31, sparked a major police operation after calling 999 and claiming he had a gun on September 7, 2024.
Armed Police Face Dangerous Standoff
When armed officers arrived, Pullen was holding an imitation firearm to his head, threatening to take his own life unless his ex-partner was brought to the scene. Throughout the ordeal, he consumed vodka and inhaled nitrous oxide, sometimes aiming the fake gun at himself or at police.
Negotiators worked flat out to calm him down, but the situation grew increasingly volatile. Police eventually fired a rubber baton round to Pullen’s torso, knocking him down. They then used a Taser before arresting him and rushing him to hospital.
Repeat Incident with Imitation Weapon
The weapon was later confirmed as a fake, but police couldn’t know that during the crisis. Pullen admitted during questioning he was suicidal and had hoped officers would shoot him. This was not his first run-in with police over weapons in Plumstead Cemetery.
In May 2021, he caused a similar alarm when carrying an air rifle. Back then, he was sectioned under the Mental Health Act instead of being prosecuted. After this 2024 episode, Pullen was charged and pled guilty to possession of an imitation firearm.
Judgment, Jail, and Personal Struggles
Pullen’s defence revealed deep personal trauma, including losing his mother at age eight, which contributed to his battles with alcohol and drug addiction. While on remand, he’s shown remorse and made efforts to tackle these issues.
At Woolwich Crown Court on February 24, 2025, Judge Christopher Grout took a serious view of Pullen’s actions but acknowledged his regret:
“The police had no idea whether the gun you were holding was real or imitation until they recovered it. They were taking a risk in the approach they took that day, although no doubt a calculated one. The simple point is they could have killed you. It is fortunate the officers took the action they did, in firing a non-lethal round to incapacitate you.”
Pullen was sentenced to four months in custody but, having served that time on remand, he will be released on licence.
Mental Health Crisis Sparks Calls for Support
The case has reignited calls for better mental health support and intervention. Pullen’s actions, while dangerous, underline the urgent need for help in times of crisis.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health or suicidal thoughts, help is available:
- Samaritans – Call 116 123 (24/7) or email [email protected]
- Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 or text 86463
- CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably) – Call 0800 58 58 58
- NHS Urgent Mental Health Helpline – Find local helplines here
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