Police use forensic technology to track suspects to "dangerous weapon" three years after crime

TWO MEN have been jailed for five years for possession of a “dangerous weapon” after police used forensic technology to trace them to the crime.

Mason Reside (24), who has links to Dinnington, and John Murphy (57) appeared at Sheffield Crown Court, where they received their jail terms for possession of a firearm.

They reportedly found two guns in the property alongside a black bag containing bullets — instead of drugs — which was sent for forensic examination, police confirmed.

After attending the property shortly after, officers arrested the occupant, Murphy.

Police said forensics on the handgun found DNA which linked to Reside, who was already in HMP Moorlands in Doncaster for “unrelated offences”.

Reside was the subject of a wanted man appeal in 2019 following a connection with burglary and harassment offences committed in Rotherham.

Det Sgt Jim Dyson, who led the investigation added: “Firearms have the potential to inflict serious injury on people, in addition to causing fear and violence for those living peacefully in our communities.

“We do not tolerate firearms, and I am pleased that Murphy and Reside have been punished for being in possession of these dangerous weapons.

“Any offences involving guns will be taken seriously by the force, and we will bring those responsible to justice.”