Teenager jailed for gun prank terror in park

Adam Boyce, 19, was with a group of friends in Thrybergh Country Park, near Rotherham, when he pointed the weapon at the park staff, who took a photograph of his actions.

The rangers said he fired it in their direction and claimed loud bangs were heard, leaving them concerned not only for their safety, but the safety of young people who were with Boyce and visitors to the park.

When he appeared in court charged with possessing a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, Boyce claimed that he had found the handgun, which he said was a cap gun, in the park.

Although it was never recovered by police, officers believe it was more than likely a BB gun.

Speaking after Boyce was sentenced at Sheffield Crown Court, investigating officer PC Hassan Ali said: “We will not tolerate anyone causing fear and distress to innocent people.

“Boyce believed he was having ‘a bit of fun’ by pointing and shooting the imitation handgun at the rangers.

“However, for the park’s staff, this was a terrifying ordeal for them, worried that their lives and the lives of others may be in danger.”

He added: “I hope anyone who thinks playing with these types of weapons in public is a ‘bit of fun’, takes note of this three year prison sentence and realises that this was not a funny prank.

“If anyone is caught copying this disgusting behaviour, they will be arrested and prosecuted,” he said.

Rotherham Council owns the country park and lake and its manager, Kevin Burke said: “Our staff certainly do not expect to see guns being waved about by individuals.

“This was a very frightening incident for those who were on duty and I am pleased to see that justice has been done.”