Firearms Investigation: Online Gun Trader In Court

A part-time online gun trader appeared in court for the first time today, accused of twenty-four counts of selling or transferring adapted firearms.

Butcher John Rhodes, 36, of London Street, Fleetwood, Lancashire, who has been on police bail for two years, appeared at west London's Hammersmith Magistrates' Court (pictured).

He was arrested by Scotland Yard's Central Intelligence Unit.

The charges, all on or before September 13, 2011, relate to a Umarex Walther P22; Retay Desert Eagle; three Umarex Colt 1911's; Zoraki 925; Walther P22 forearm.

Rohm RG3; Ekol Viper; Heckler & Koch P30 Walther PP; Ekol Jackal Dual.

Colt 1911; Ekol Special 99; Colt Government 1911; Ekol Jackal Dual blank-firing pistol; Walther P22 blank-firing pistol.

Colt 45 blank-firing pistol; Colt 45 blank-firing pistol; Saver P239 blank-firing pistol; Walther P99 blank-firing pistol; Ekol Viper; Heckler & Koch MPSK-PDW air weapon and a Walther P22 blank-firing pistol.

Rhodes, who admits he bought and sold replicas and decommissioned firearms online, is accused of trading in guns that could be adapted to fire gas-propelled projectile.

He was bailed to appear at Isleworth Crown Court on July 26 on condition he continues to report three times a week to his local police station.