A
gunman arrested by gang-busting cops – who found a loaded firearm
stuffed inside a sock inside a kitchen cupboard – has been jailed
for fifteen years.
Jonothan
Odokama, 25, of Tennison Road, South Norwood tried to blame his 25
year-old girlfriend, who was pregnant at the time of the raid, but
this was rejected by the jury.
He
was convicted at Croydon Crown Court of possession of a firearm, with
intent to endanger life, and possession of ammunition with intent to
endanger life at his home address on November 11, last year.
As
part of a proactive, intelligence-led operation, officers from the
Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) Trident Gang Crime Command,
supported by the MPS Specialist Firearms Unit, executed a search
warrant at the property.
A
search of the address revealed a Baikal semi automatic handgun
secreted on top of a kitchen cupboard, hidden in a sock.
The
handgun was loaded with eight rounds of ammunition.
Both
Odokama and his girlfriend were arrested at the address and charged
with firearms offences.
His
girlfriend was later acquitted at court.
A
third man, 25, was also arrested at the property, he was bailed to
return and later released no further action.
Detective
Inspector Paul Dorey of Trident Gang Crime Command said: "The
arrest and conviction of Jonothan Odokama demonstrates Trident's
continued commitment to target dangerous criminals concerned in gangs
and firearm criminality.
“This
successful prosecution also highlights the dangers posed to female
partners of gang members who are used to store firearms.
“Even
when confronted with significant evidence regarding his possession of
the firearm, Odokama attempted to blame his girlfriend.
"However
upon hearing all evidence the jury found him guilty of firearm
offences and acquitted his girlfriend.
"I
hope that the sentence given to Odokama will send a clear message to
those concerned in gun crime including females storing guns.
“Trident
officers will relentlessly pursue them and they can expect to be
identified, brought before the courts."
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