Man charged in connection with suspected firearm incident in Bognor

Police are continuing to investigate and appeal for witnesses after an incident involving a suspected imitation firearm in Bognor.

Officers were called to Durlston Drive at about 7.30pm on 24 May after a report it had been discharged.

A man was arrested in connection with the investigation.

Detective Constable Stephen Carter said: “This was an isolated incident that did not pose a wider threat to the community.

“We are continuing to review the circumstances of the incident, and I would encourage anyone with information, including neighbours with CCTV or doorbell footage, to come forward if they have not already done so.”

Sussex Police can confirm that Michael Hames, 62, a British national of Hazel Road, Bognor, was charged with possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, and possession of a weapon for the discharge of a noxious liquid, gas electrical device or thing.

He appeared before Crawley Magistrates’ Court on 26 May and was bailed to appear before Portsmouth Crown Court on 23 June to answer the charges.

Anyone with further information can report it to Sussex Police online, quoting reference 1498 of 24/05.