A former army cadet pleaded guilty to being in possession of an airgun without a certificate yesterday.
Joseph Miller, 36, of Rhuvaal Road, Oban, appeared at the town’s Sheriff Court.
Fiscal Eoin McGinty said police were speaking to Miller while carrying out inquiries about another matter on April 17.
Mr McGinty said: “The accused was highly intoxicated and during the course of discussions with police he freely stated he had an air weapon and didn’t possess any certification for that.
“He was aware that legislation came in force but he simply hadn’t got round to applying for the certificate, he said.
“Checks were carried out and he was subsequently cautioned and charged.”
Defence solicitor Kevin McGuinness said: “He spent a number of years in the army cadets and is trained in the use of firearms. I have a Skill at Arms certificate for your lordship’s perusal.
“He has never come near the criminal courts.”
Sheriff Patrick Hughes said: “It doesn’t matter how familiar someone is with firearms, parliament has taken a view that owners of air weapons should be licensed.”
He told Miller: “In light of your previous good character I propose to defer this matter for three months to allow you to be of good behaviour. I can’t say what may or may not happen.”
Sentenced was deferred until June 19. The sheriff did not order forfeiture of the weapon, to allow Miller to get a certificate for it.
