AARON BISHOP FROM ALDERSHOT JAILED FOR IMPORTING GUNS AND CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

In April 2017, a significant firearms smuggling operation was uncovered involving individuals from different parts of the country, including Aaron Bishop from Aldershot. Bishop, aged 39, was found to have played a central role in importing illegal firearms through the postal system, a crime that was uncovered through a detailed investigation by the National Crime Agency (NCA).

The investigation revealed that Bishop, along with Martin Beard, aged 38, used the dark web to coordinate the delivery of firearms. The authorities traced a shipment of guns that was delivered to Bishop’s address, which was linked to the broader operation involving Beard. The court heard that police executed a search warrant at Bishop’s residence on Andover Way in Aldershot, during which they discovered disturbing evidence: child pornography stored on a USB drive that was buried in his garden. This discovery added a deeply troubling dimension to the case, highlighting Bishop’s involvement in other illicit activities.

Both Bishop and Beard were convicted of importing firearms, although a jury at Birmingham Crown Court cleared them of charges related to importing ammunition. Bishop also admitted to possessing indecent images of children, a revelation that underscored the severity of his criminal conduct. Beard, on the other hand, admitted to producing cannabis, indicating his involvement in drug-related activities.

Another key figure in the case was Mark Richards, aged 38, from Cramhurst Lane in Godalming. Richards was responsible for delivering the firearms to Bishop and Beard and was sentenced to five years and four months in prison after admitting to conspiring to import prohibited Glock handguns and ammunition.

Senior investigating officer Dawn Cartwright, who leads the NCA’s border policing command, commented on the case: “Richards used Beard and Bishop to accept the guns because he believed they were off law enforcement’s radar. It has been a long wait to put these men before the court and we are very pleased with the jury’s decision. We will continue to target and pursue those supplying illegal guns regardless of how long it takes.”

As a result of the court proceedings, Aaron Bishop from Aldershot was sentenced to four years and ten months in prison. Martin Beard received a sentence of four years and six months. The case underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies to combat illegal firearms trafficking and associated criminal activities, including the possession and distribution of child exploitation material.