VIDEO: Police praise ‘courageous’ former Northampton Town footballer after man is jailed for shooting at him

A man has been jailed for 14 months for firing a weapon at a former Northampton Town footballer – after he was caught by his OWN CCTV camera.
Joe Burnell in his Northampton Town daysJoe Burnell in his Northampton Town days
Joe Burnell in his Northampton Town days

Jamie Golding, 26, fired a gas powered firearm at former Cobblers midfielder Joe Burnell on the housing complex where they both lived.

He pleaded not guilty to the charges but was convicted at Bristol Crown Court after CCTV footage from inside his own home emerged.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The camera, which filmed the area outside his house, showed Golding’s reflection in the window, holding the weapon.

Joe Burnell in his Northampton Town daysJoe Burnell in his Northampton Town days
Joe Burnell in his Northampton Town days

Golding, from St Phillips, Bristol, has now been jailed for 14 months for possessing a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.

Speaking after the case, investigating officer, PC Stuart King, praised Mr Burnell – who made 57 appearances for the Cobblers between 2006 and 2008 – and his mother for their bravery.

He said: “Any offence involving a weapon, particularly a firearm, is treated extremely seriously by the police and the courts.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“Golding had a dangerous and prohibited weapon in his possession which he used with the sole intention of causing distress and fear.

Burnell has been praised by policeBurnell has been praised by police
Burnell has been praised by police

“I’d like to praise the victim and his mother, who was also present at the time, as they’ve shown true courage throughout the investigation and court case.

“I also want to thank them for their support and hope they’re able to move on with their lives now the legal proceedings have come to an end.”

The 34-year-old former Wycombe Wanderers, Bristol City and Oxford United man was a regular at Northampton under then manager John Gorman.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

During his time at the club, Burnell was a consistently good performer being named captain on several occasions in the absence of Chris Doig and Mark Hughes.

In April 2008, it was announced Burnell was to be released, which came as something of a surprise to most Cobblers fans.

He is currently playing for Bath City.