London, Feb 3 (PTI): An Indian-origin man who donned a fake police uniform and brandished an imitation firearm while firing blanks at armed officers near Leicester, England, has been sentenced to three years in prison.
Hari Mann, 25, pointed a handgun at a civilian before discharging blank rounds at police officers in Braunstone Town on the morning of June 4, 2024. The swift response of Leicestershire Police was commended as Mann was sentenced at Leicester Crown Court on Friday.
Quick Police Response Prevents Harm
Detective Inspector (DI) Hazel Sandall praised the rapid police action, highlighting the urgency of the situation. "This was an incident that resulted in a fast-paced policing response and had a significant impact on the local community. The first report was made at 9:57 AM, and by 10:15 AM, Mann was arrested," DI Sandall said.
The court was told that Mann drove a Mercedes Sprinter van into a pub car park and began unloading its contents. When confronted by a member of the public, he pointed a handgun at them, prompting a call to the police. Armed officers were swiftly deployed to the scene.
Dangerous Intent Despite Using Blanks
"The items uncovered by officers during the investigation were deeply concerning," DI Sandall added. "Although his weapon contained blank rounds, the fact that he was willing to pull the trigger at armed officers makes it clear he intended to instill fear of serious harm. This kind of behavior will not be tolerated."
Upon arrival, police officers were met with gunfire from Mann. One of the armed officers quickly realized that Mann was using an imitation weapon loaded with blanks, allowing them to defuse the situation effectively. A Taser was deployed, and despite Mann’s attempt to flee, he was swiftly detained and arrested. While in custody, he also assaulted a nurse.
Discovery of Further Evidence
Due to concerns about the van’s contents, a security cordon was established, and nearby properties were evacuated as a precaution. A subsequent search of an address linked to Mann in Lancaster Place, Leicester, uncovered another imitation firearm, a police-style uniform, and handcuffs. Investigators found that parts of the uniform had been purchased online. Two vehicles associated with Mann—a Ford Mustang and a Ford C-Max—were discovered containing sirens and blue light equipment.
Mann pleaded guilty on October 9, 2023, at Leicester Crown Court to multiple charges, including six counts of possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, one count of modifying an imitation firearm, one count of impersonating a police officer, and one count of assaulting an emergency worker.
His conviction underscores the severity with which UK authorities handle such incidents, ensuring public safety and upholding the law.
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