In a significant crackdown on illegal arms modifications, Evan Girdlestone, a 48-year-old plumber from south London, has been sentenced to seven years and two months in prison. This follows a meticulous investigation by the National Crime Agency (NCA), which unearthed his operations converting blank firing guns into lethal firearms.
Girdlestone was apprehended by the NCA’s Armed Operations Unit (AOU) on 18 May last year near his vehicle in Croydon. A search of his car revealed a hidden converted gun along with two magazines loaded with ammunition under the passenger seat. The investigation extended to an industrial unit in Wimbledon, utilised by Girdlestone as a makeshift production line for these dangerous modifications.
“Evan Girdlestone’s actions posed a severe risk to public safety. His arrest and subsequent conviction reflect our relentless pursuit to neutralise such threats,” stated Debbie Palmer-Lawrence, head of the NCA’s Armed Operations Unit.
The search of the Wimbledon unit was thorough, turning up four converted guns, four unconverted blank firers, 174 rounds of live ammunition, spent casings, and various tools used for converting the weapons. Notably, Girdlestone had also conducted test firings at the unit, with phonebooks attached to a concrete wall serving as makeshift targets. He even reported injuries from a ricochet to his associates, underscoring the perilous nature of his activities.
The case against Girdlestone solidified over several court appearances at Croydon Crown Court, where he faced multiple charges and ultimately pleaded guilty to four counts of possessing firearms, three counts of possessing ammunition, and three counts of converting blank firearms into operational guns.
“As an armourer, Girdlestone was reckless and a real danger to the public. He is now in the right place after excellent work by a variety of NCA teams to build the rock-solid case against him. He had no choice but to plead guilty,” Palmer-Lawrence added.
This case highlights the NCA’s ongoing commitment to combating the criminal use of firearms. The agency continues to work closely with partners both domestically and internationally to enforce laws and safeguard the public from the dangers posed by illegal firearms trafficking and modifications.
Evan Girdlestone’s sentencing not only marks the closure of a dangerous chapter but also serves as a stern warning to others involved in similar illicit activities. The NCA reaffirms its dedication to maintaining public safety and ensuring that individuals like Girdlestone face the full consequences of their unlawful actions.
source: National Crime Agency
