ANALYSIS of homemade 3D printed assault rifles at The University of Warwick has helped police convict a criminal.
West Midlands Police seized 3D printed guns at the home of David Biddell-Portman in December 2020 as part of Operation Captiva.
Professor Mark Williams, an expert in 3D printing and scanning, was called in by the police as his machines are 100 times more powerful than a CAT scanner and are able to view images smaller than a human hair.
Using the technology, mark discovered the amounts of metal and plastic in each weapon, proving the homemade guns were working and deadly.
The analysis also showed the levels of effort and premeditation that went into the construction of the guns.
After evidence was collected the defendant received a five year sentence.
Professor Mark Williams said: “It’s satisfying to see justice served, and I’m glad to use our technology in any way we can to help the efforts of West Midlands Police.
“By making this sort of technology available to the public sector, we’re ensuring it’s not just big companies that have access to cutting edge techniques.
“A dangerous criminal is now off the streets thanks to the efforts of West Midlands Police, and I look forward to our continuing work with them.”
Most 3D printed weapons have never been encountered before, and are often irregular and defy categorisation due to their black market, homemade construction.
Michelle Painter, deputy head of forensics at West Midlands Police added: “This partnership is invaluable to West Midlands Police, the strength and commitment is truly unique and the boundaries are limitless.
“The application of the use of Micro CT scanning in criminal cases continues to be innovative and ground-breaking and progresses investigations and brings justice for victims.”
