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Antiques Roadshow Expert Bill Harriman Intervenes in Machete Possession Case
Firearms specialist and Antiques Roadshow personality, Bill Harriman, played a crucial role in preventing the prosecution of a man accused of possessing an offensive weapon. Wayne Thompson faced charges for allegedly possessing an offensive weapon in a private residence in 2022, after law enforcement officers discovered a machete under a sofa in his Carlisle home. Mr. Harriman’s expert testimony proved instrumental in the legal proceedings.
Expert Witness Testimony Halts Weapons Prosecution
Mr. Thompson maintained his innocence, asserting that owning the 51cm machete was not illegal. His defense lawyer, John Smith, enlisted the expertise of Bill Harriman, a regular contributor to the Antiques Roadshow since 1986, to prepare a report on the item. Mr. Harriman was scheduled to present evidence in court but had to withdraw shortly before the trial due to a colleague’s illness, the court was informed.
Private Residence vs. Public Place in Weapons Offenses
Typically, weapons prosecutions are pursued when an individual carries a weapon in a public area. However, certain “specified weapons,” including curved-blade swords, are subject to legal restrictions even within a private dwelling. This makes possession in a private place a potential criminal offense in specific circumstances.
Machete Defined: Expert Clarifies Legal Distinction
In his report, Mr. Harriman clearly articulated that “sword” and “machete” are distinct terms, not interchangeable. He defined a machete as a single-edged tool legitimately employed for agricultural purposes. This distinction was central to the defense’s argument.
Case Dismissed After Expert Evidence Presented
The magistrate presiding over the case declined to postpone proceedings to allow the prosecution to obtain their own expert assessment. The defense argued they had provided ample time for the prosecution to seek expert consultation after receiving Mr. Harriman’s report months prior. Consequently, the case was dismissed when the prosecution presented no further evidence.
Bill Harriman: From Surveyor to Firearms Authority
Initially trained as a chartered surveyor, Bill Harriman redirected his career path to pursue his passion. He currently holds the position of Director of Firearms at the British Association for Shooting and Conservation. Further demonstrating his expertise, he is a recognized forensic practitioner and was appointed to the Home Office Reference Panel for historical firearms in 2002.
Antiques Roadshow Highlights and Personal Treasures
Since joining the Roadshow in 1986, Mr. Harriman cites his most remarkable discovery as a gold and ivory Charles Lancaster four-barrelled pistol, crafted for General Sir Garnet Wolseley, a prominent figure in Victorian military history.
From his personal collection, Mr. Harriman’s most cherished item is his grandfather’s penknife, damaged by a bullet or shrapnel during World War I. This piece holds significant personal and historical value for the weapons expert.
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