Man Threatens Police with Fake Gun After Axe Attack on Car
Russell McIlwrath, 38, caused chaos in Tobruk Way after smashing a parked car and a front door with a two-foot-long axe. When police arrived, he threatened to shoot them with what turned out to be an imitation firearm.
Armed Police Respond to Axe Rampage
Just after 12:25am on December 28, 2020, Kent Police rushed to the scene following reports of McIlwrath attacking a car with the axe. Witnesses had spotted him wielding the weapon and damaging property, prompting armed patrols to back up the officers on site.
Police spotted McIlwrath inside his home holding what looked like a black handgun. He yelled threats, claiming he had a Colt 45 9mm and vowed to shoot officers in the head.
Standoff Ends with Surrender
After setting up a containment zone and negotiating, armed police convinced McIlwrath to exit his home unarmed. A search uncovered the imitation firearm and cannabis hidden at the address. McIlwrath was immediately arrested and charged.
Judge Sends McIlwrath to Prison
At Maidstone Crown Court on May 11, 2021, McIlwrath pleaded guilty to possessing an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear, two counts of criminal damage, and possessing cannabis. He has been held in custody since.
Detective Constable Michael Rake said: “McIlwrath showed exceptional hostility towards our officers. It’s a testament to their professionalism that he was safely detained. This was a senseless crime, and a custodial sentence was wholly appropriate.”
