A 23-year-old Plymouth man has been sentenced to over three years in prison after firing a BB gun at members of the public in Launceston town centre, leaving one man seriously injured.

Aiden Cashley, of Budshead Road, Plymouth, was involved in an altercation with a group of strangers on 28 December 2024, shortly after 11pm. After a verbal exchange, he left the scene, saying he needed to “get something”.

When he returned, Cashley pulled out an imitation firearm concealed in his clothing and fired multiple shots into the group. One man was hit repeatedly in the arm, suffering serious injuries that later required surgery.

Arrest and Charges

Following the attack, Cashley attempted to flee but was quickly detained by members of the public until police arrived. Officers arrested him at the scene and seized the weapon.

He was later charged with possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence and assault causing actual bodily harm.

Cashley pleaded guilty and was sentenced at Truro Crown Court on 4 March 2025 to three years and one month in prison. The weapon will also be destroyed.

Police Statement

Detective Constable Hannah Ackford, who led the investigation, said:

“We welcome the sentence given to Cashley, who carried out this random and serious attack on a group of people who were not known to him.”

“There are so many risks associated with possessing weapons, and no good can come from it.”

Appeal to the Public

Police have urged the public to report any information about individuals carrying weapons before incidents like this escalate.

If you have concerns about violent crime in your community, you can:
? Call 999 in an emergency
? Report information online
? Contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

This disturbing incident highlights the serious consequences of carrying weapons and how a split-second decision can change lives forever.