A 47-year-vintage man has been sentenced to 19 years in prison, with an extended five-year licence period, after shooting a man in the stomach following a dispute over drugs in Handsworth, Birmingham.
Details of the Incident
Tyrone Solomon shot Ibrar Hussain after believing he had been “short-changed” over three wraps of crack cocaine. The incident occurred on February 1, 2024, when Mr. Hussain drove to Hamstead Road to purchase drugs. A struggle ensued after Mr. Hussain’s passenger allegedly told Solomon he would only receive six wraps instead of the nine he had paid for, due to a debt owed by a woman present at the scene.
While the jury cleared Solomon of attempted murder and wounding with intent, he was found guilty of possessing a firearm with intent to endanger life. Judge Paul Farrer KC stated the jury accepted Solomon’s claim that the gun discharged during a struggle.
Mr. Hussain required life-saving surgery and continues to suffer from mobility and mental health issues more than two years later, with the bullet remaining lodged in his body.
Solomon’s History
The court heard Solomon has 40 previous offences, with three involving firearms. He has also been the subject of multiple “Wanted” appeals issued by West Midlands Police. Judge Farrer described Solomon as a “danger” to the public and someone who has demonstrated a “determination to possess firearms and ammunition” over the last 25 years.
Defending Solomon, Gwynn Price Rowlands argued his client did not intend to shoot Mr. Hussain, and was present to accompany a woman described as a “sad, vulnerable drug user” who had been subjected to abuse.
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the shooting?
The shooting occurred after Tyrone Solomon believed he had been short-changed over the amount of crack cocaine he received for his money, and a dispute arose with Ibrar Hussain.
What was the outcome of the trial?
Tyrone Solomon was cleared of attempted murder and wounding with intent, but was found guilty of possessing a firearm with intent to endanger life and sentenced to 19 years in prison with a five-year extended license.
What injuries did Ibrar Hussain sustain?
Ibrar Hussain was shot in the abdomen and required life-saving surgery. More than two years later, he continues to suffer from mobility and mental health issues, and the bullet remains lodged in his body.
How might this case influence future sentencing in similar firearms-related incidents?
