A 28-year-old man accused of impersonating police and stealing guns from a Hunter home under the guise of executing a search warrant has faced Newcastle Local Court.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Matthew John O’Dell sat quietly in the dock, weeping at times, but did not apply for bail.
Police allege he went to a home in East Seaham Road, Clarence Town, on the morning of October 29, with another man.
It will be alleged the men claimed to be interstate police officers executing a search warrant and demanded to inspect the owner’s firearms.
During the fake inspection, they allegedly stole two revolvers and left a short time later.
Early the next day, police from the State Crime Command’s Firearms Squad executed an unrelated search warrant at a home in Greaves Street, Mayfield East, where they allegedly located the two stolen revolvers.
As a result of ongoing inquiries by Firearms Squad detectives, police arrested Mr O’Dell on Wednesday at his home in George Street, Mayfield.
He was taken to Newcastle Police Station and charged with aggravated break and enter, acquire firearm without permit to acquire, impersonate police officer and exercise powers/functions, supply prohibited firearm to unauthorised person.
He was also charged with making a false representation resulting in police investigation after he allegedly falsely reported his car registration plates had been stolen.
He was refused bail and made a brief appearance in the Newcastle Local Court on Thursday where the matter was adjourned for six weeks to April 15.
An older male supporter seated in the back of the court wept as it became clear that O’Dell would not be released from custody. O’Dell also wept in the moments before being taken to the cells.
Police are continuing with their inquiries locate the second man involved and have asked that anyone with information call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online reporting page.