02/09/05 - Statement of Gordon Kenneth Osborne
WITNESS STATEMENT
(CJ Act 1967, s.9; MCAct 1980, ss.5A(3) (a) and 5B; MC Rules 1981, r.70)
Statement of: OSBORNE, GORDON KENNETH
Age if under 18: OVER 18 (if over 18 insert'over 18')
Occupation: CARPENTER
This statement (consisting of 3 page(s) each signed by me) is true to the best of my knowledge and belief and I make it knowing that, if it is tendered in evidence, I shall be liable to prosecution if I have wilfully stated anything which I know to be false or do not believe to be true.
Signed: G OSBORNE
Date: 02/09/2005
In making this statement I have referred to that I made to the Essex Police on the 18th June 2001 (18/06/2001) and a house to house enquiry form completed in my name.
Dealing first with the house to house enquiry form I recall the details on this form were recorded by a Detective who called at my door, I will admit that at the time I didn't really think about the answers I gave the officer and was quite vague about what I said.
However, by the time the officer called to take a statement from me I had given it more thought. In my statement I stated that I went to bed about 9pm on the 27th February 2001 (27/01/2001), this was probably earlier than the usual time but I'd had a heard day at work.
My bedroom was at the rear of the house, I would always have one of the bedroom windows open, the curtains would have been open, they were never closed.
Occasionally I would read in bed, sometimes I would just drift off to sleep, on the night in question I can't recall what I did or how long I was awake before I went to sleep. I woke about 11pm that same evening, I'd heard two or three shots coming from the allotment.
I cant be more specific about the time now but I had a digital alarm clock by the bed which I did look at. I immediately recognised the sounds as coming from a handgun, this type of weapon has a distinctive sound, totally different to a shotgun or rifle.
I have had experience of firearms since I was 11 years of age when I shot rifles with the Sea Cadets. I remained in the cadets until the age of sixteen.
At the age of 17 I joined the Royal Marines staying with them for 18 months. During training with the Marines I had training on the Browning 9mm semi automatic pistol, SLR rifles, Lee Enfield rifles, American M16 rifles, German Mauser and Luger.
Since leaving tie Marines I have not had any dealings with firearms, but like riding a bike you never forget what you've learnt and the sound each weapon makes. I can't say how far away these shots were, all I can say is that the sounds definitely came from the back of my house.
I have been asked if I will return to the United Kingdom and give evidence, I can states that I will not It as also been explained to me that I am wanted in connection with an offence I committed prior to coming to Spain, Spring 2004.
This is not the reason I shall not return to give evidence, Whilst living in the Leigh-on-Sea area I would frequent the Woodcutters pub, I am all to aware of the reputation of the people that use this pub and those charged in connection with the murder of 27th February 2001.
I would fear not only for my safety but that of my family should I return as a witness. I have also been asked if I would consider giving evidence by video link, I will not for the reasons I have already explained.
