Drink-driver’s powerful air rifle seized from car boot

Published on 21/07/2012 12:00

POLICE seized a high-powered air rifle fitted with a scope and a silencer from the boot of a drink-driver’s car.

They found the weapon when they arrested Paul Fannon and charged him with driving over the limit for the second time in a month.

But the accused’s lawyer claimed in court that the air rifle was a “hobby” for the accused and his children and there was no aggression involved.

Fannon, 36, appeared for sentence at Livingston Sheriff Court yesterday on two counts of drink-driving and possessing a weapon.

He earlier pleaded guilty to committing the offences on May 12 and June 10 this year.

Fannon, of Livingston, did not object to a prosecution motion to confiscate the air gun, along with his motorbike and car, worth a total of £9000.

He was banned from driving for five years, put under supervision for two years and ordered to do 180 hours of unpaid work within 12 months. He was also fined £150 for the firearms offence.