Druggie On Train Caught With Bizarre Converted Staple Gun Firearm

A drug-user, whose converted staple gun firearm was found in his suitcase after an off-duty cop spotted him getting high on a train, has been locked up.

Jamie Young, 45, recorded himself test-firing the weapon in a field and posing for self-portrait photo with the potentially-deadly firearm.

Young, of Selbourne Close, New Barn, Longfield, Kent was seen by the off-duty Metropolitan Police officer on the evening of March 1, 2024 consuming drugs as the train travelled through Hertfordshire.

He was removed from the service at St Albans City station and was searched.

Inside a pocket of Young’s suitcase was the staple gun that appeared to have been converted into a firearm. 

He was arrested and the suspected firearm was seized, along with two phones and a small amount of crack cocaine found on him.

The weapon was tested by specialists and it was classified as a viable firearm equipped with a barrel to fire ammunition.

Analysis of his mobile phones uncovered further evidence connecting Young to the homemade gun, including a video of him test firing it in a field as well as a self-portrait photo with the weapon.

In his police interview, Young claimed the firearm was placed in the suitcase a few months before his trip and he wasn’t aware it was still inside until police officers pulled it out.

British Transport Police Detective Constable Agata Barker said: “Thanks to the sharp actions of the off-duty officer travelling on the train that day, a lethal weapon has been removed from criminal circulation.

“Only Jamie Young knows what he planned to do with his homemade gun, but if it was used against someone it could have resulted in fatal consequences.

“From material found on his phones it’s clear he was enamoured with his creation and now, following our investigation, he has a long stint behind bars to rethink his interests.

"Anyone carrying weapons on the railway should know that we will find them, and we will ensure they face justice."