A man who threatened police with a loaded gun while trying to evade justice has been sentenced to 14 years in prison, plus two years on licence. Jay Conway pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply class A and B drugs during his sentencing at Manchester Crown Court on March 6, 2026.
The incident began on May 20, 2025, when plain-clothed Salford Challenger officers spotted Conway riding an e-bike through Albert Park, wearing a balaclava. When officers attempted to detain him, he fled, waving what appeared to be a pistol in their direction.
The chase continued into Great Clowes Street, where a neighbourhood officer tried to apprehend Conway. When Conway resisted, the officer deployed a Taser. The situation escalated when Conway pulled the gun a second time, aiming it directly at both the officer and a bystander.
After dropping the loaded firearm and a mobile phone, Conway ran off again. A swift investigation involving forensic analysis and CCTV footage enabled police to identify him. Armed officers arrested Conway the following day in Whalley Range, Manchester.
Detective Superintendent Simon Moyles said: “We identified Conway as a critical target and worked relentlessly to bring him to justice. Our team’s proactive tactics and dedication have been instrumental in tackling violent offenders like him.”
Between April 2024 and April 2025, Greater Manchester Police seized 86 guns from the streets, with an additional 27 confiscated since then. This effort has reduced shootings by 59% compared to 2021, saving numerous lives. In Salford alone, shootings dropped to just one this year compared to three last year.
DS Moyles added: “No one – police or public – should face a gun. Conway was incredibly dangerous and rightly sentenced. We commend our brave officers. Guns have no place here, and we urge anyone with information on firearms to come forward.”
PC Dan Clayton, one of three officers involved in the chase, recalled the chilling moment he faced the loaded gun. “I didn’t know he had a gun at first. When I saw it, I took cover behind a parked car,” said PC Clayton, who works with the Salford North Neighbourhood Policing Team. “I was staring down the barrel and all I could think about was my pregnant wife – I might never see my baby.”
Despite the danger, PC Clayton’s quick thinking helped him recover the weapon. He admitted the incident left him shaken and needing time off to recover but praised his team for their training and bravery. PC Clayton said: “In the moment, you just do your job. It’s only afterwards that it hits you.”
Chief Superintendent Neil Blackwood, Salford District Commander, said: “Their bravery was outstanding. I’m nominating all three officers for bravery awards. They ran towards danger to protect the public.”
Deputy Chief Constable Terry Woods added: “These officers showed incredible courage confronting an armed man who’s now behind bars. This is rare because of our focus on listening to the community and investing in local policing.”
Police have vowed to continue their fight against gun crime and urge the public to report anyone with illegal firearms. Every gun taken off the streets could mean a life saved.
Originally published by UKNIP.
