Man Wrongly Targeted in Firearms Seizure by Gloucestershire Police

A gamekeeper’s son from the Forest of Dean remains without his shotguns several months after Gloucestershire Police acted on harassment allegations and confused him with a murder suspect sharing his name.

What were the initial allegations?

Jack Edmunds says police initially seized his firearms following harassment allegations from his ex-girlfriend. Officers allegedly provided no receipt and refused to explain the confiscation.

How was the case of mistaken identity discovered?

The situation worsened when police sent him a letter referencing a June 2023 fatal stabbing incident, where the suspect had disclosed alcohol and mental health struggles. But the letter apparently referred to a different Jack Edmunds, 10 years younger, living nearby.

What has the response been?

Mr Edmunds filed a complaint five months ago, but claims he received only a call citing staff shortages. His firearms remain confiscated due to the original harassment allegations, which he denies.

A Gloucestershire Police spokesperson said: “A complaint has been made to the force about this case and therefore we cannot go into further detail.”

Mr Edmunds plans to reapply for his certificate next year.