Auckland City Police have considered their position regarding Greg Carvell's possession of a firearm on July 27 last year at Small Arms International and have decided not to pursue the unlawful possession charge against him relating to that incident.
This case was never about the actual use of the firearm. The use of the firearm had been considered by the Police, who had found that Mr Carvell used it in self defence.
The matters raised in Court concerned the reason for possession of the firearm and general security procedures that Small Arms International and Mr Carvell carried out on a daily basis.
This included having a gun with a loaded magazine in it under a desk in the shop for the purpose of self defence.
It is illegal in New Zealand - under the Arms Act - for members of the general public to possess firearms for the purpose of self defence and Police will always be concerned when such instances emerge.
Any change on this issue would have to come from a change in the law via the normal legislative channels.
The decision about whether to prosecute or not has always been finely balanced, but after due consideration the Police have decided not to continue. The matter is at an end.
ENDS
Issued by Noreen Hegarty
Auckland City Police Communications Manager
Ph 09 302 6947 or 0274-951-589
Website: www.police.govt.nz