Man jailed for trying to sell 'Pen Gun': Manchester Crown Court
(M14 - Wednesday, 4 November, 2009)

A man who tried to sell a gun disguised as a pen has been jailed for five years, today, Wednesday 4 November 2009.

Hugh Anthony West (born 10/03/69) of Radstock Close, Fallowfield, pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm and ammunition before Manchester Crown Court Crown Square.

West was arrested on 4 August 2009, after he had approached a stranger in a car on Wilmslow Road, Rusholme, and asked him if he wanted to buy a gun.

He showed the man a pen and explained that it would fire when a bullet was inserted and the pin pulled.

West also showed the man a bullet.

He refused the buy the weapon and called police as soon as West walked away.

Officers arrived and searched West. He was found to be in possession of a pen, which was examined and found to contain a bullet.

Detective Constable Victoria Wilson, of Longsight CID, said:

"It is very concerning that West would approach a stranger and attempt to sell a potentially lethal weapon.

"This sort of weapon is easy to hide and could have fallen into the wrong hands, so it is fortunate that the man reported West's behaviour straight away so officers could arrest him and ensure another gun has been taken out of circulation.

"I'd like to commend that man for thinking so quickly and directing the officers to West.

"Greater Manchester Police is committed to removing dangerous weapons and the people who supply and carry them from the streets and we will continue our aim to make Greater Manchester safer."

Police Force: Greater Manchester

Address:
Wilmslow Road
Rusholme
Manchester
Lancashire
M14