Jail for man found with gun

A man has been jailed for nine years after being found with a gun in his car while parked in a layby in south Derbyshire.

Marlon Dean was arrested by officers after his black Audi A3 was spotted in a layby on the A516 Etwall Road on Monday 3 November 2020.

In the car was found a loaded black handgun and a lock knife. He was also found to be in possession of cannabis, heroin, crack cocaine and a large quantity of money.

The 29-year-old of no-fixed-abode appeared at Derby Crown Court on Friday 19 March and pleaded guilty to possession of a handgun, possession of a knife in a public place, possession of heroin with intent to supply, possession of crack cocaine with intent to supply and possession of cannabis.

He was jailed for 9 nine years.

DC Tom Barry, from the south organised crime unit, said: “While the use of a firearm in our county is very rare this case should act as a reminder to all those who may seek to obtain an illegal firearm.

“There is absolutely no place for this type of weapon in the hands of a criminal like Marlon Dean and I am thankful that the danger he posed to people in our county has now been minimised.

“Guns like that found in Dean’s car have taken lives across the country and I would urge anyone who may have information about people who have access to these types of weapon to report their concerns. Your information could save a life.”

If you are concerned that someone you know may be in possession or be looking to acquire, a firearm then you can report this to the police, in confidence, at any time using any of the below methods:

• Facebook– send us a private message to /DerbyshireConstabulary
• Twitter– direct message our contact centre on @DerPolContact
• Website– complete the online contact form derbyshire.police.uk/Contact-Us.
• Phone – call us on 101.

You can also anonymously contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111 or by visiting www.crimestoppers-uk.org.