Gun man faces sentencing

A LIMERICK man who claimed he acquired a hand gun for his own protection after his uncle was shot dead will be sentenced at Limerick Circuit Court today.

John Campion, aged 20, of Craeval Park, Moyross, yesterday pleaded guilty to having a Smith and Wesson hand gun along with five rounds of ammunition.

Det Garda Gerry Cleary said the hand gun and ammunition were found on April 26 last, the same day Noel Campion, uncle of the accused, was murdered.

The gun and ammunition were found in searches near the home of the accused. They were discovered under a coal bag at the rear of a house in the estate. Campion told them he had obtained the gun for his own protection. He had the gun for only an hour and a half before the Garda raid during which it was found.

He said he had been faxed by a member of an opposing faction that he was the only male member of the Campion family left.

Brian McInerney BL, for Campion, said his uncle Noel Campion had been driving as a pillion passenger on a motor bike in Thomondgate when he was assassinated.

Judge Carroll Moran adjourned the matter to today when he will pass sentence.