Three Jailed Over Imitation Gun Threat in Kirkby
Andrew Rathbone, 25, Michael Brown, 26, and Liam Higham, 21, have been locked up after terrifying a woman with a fake firearm in Kirkby. They pleaded guilty at Liverpool Crown Court on Tuesday, November 21.
Scare at Kirkby Car Park
The shocking incident unfolded on March 13, 2022. After a pub row the day before, the pair approached the woman, yanked open her car door, and pointed an imitation gun at her while making threats. Though the weapon was fake, the fear they sowed was anything but.
Police Crack Down on Gun Intimidation
Detective Chief Inspector John Fitzgerald said:
“Even imitation firearms can cause real fear and distress in the community. We won’t tolerate the use of any weapon for intimidation or harm. Those responsible will be caught and brought to justice.”
Part of Bigger Operation to Dismantle Gang Crime
This conviction is part of the ongoing EVOLVE initiative tackling gang crime across Merseyside. The scheme, involving police, councils, fire services, and community groups, targets organised crime by:
- Clearing gang members from hotspots
- Holding areas to stop other gangs moving in
- Working with locals to build safer, thriving communities
Projects are currently active in Wirral, Liverpool, Knowsley, and Sefton, uniting a broad partnership including Merseyside’s Police and Crime Commissioner, probation services, housing associations, schools, and more.
