Sentencing for Jason Patrick Loder, 26, was scheduled to take place after the facts of his case were heard at provincial court in St. John’s Monday afternoon.
However, due to trouble getting a photo presentation to work, there wasn’t enough time for Crown prosecutor Dana Sullivan to question Loder, for final submissions to be made or for Judge David Power to hand down a sentence.
The case will be called again Friday afternoon. Depending on defence lawyer Jane Fitzpatrick’s availability, it could proceed or be rescheduled at that time.
Police searched and found a cache of rifles and pistols in Loder’s Baird Place apartment last August after they were made aware of images he had posted on www.canadiangunnutz.com and photobucket.com.
Of the dozens of weapons, many were registered but some were prohibited, including a homemade AKM (AK-47) assault rifle and handcrafted British sten gun.
Police described the cache as “frightening.”
As well, a few of the firearms weren’t stored properly.
Loder, who has licences to own restricted and non-restricted firearms, pleaded guilty in March.
The charges against him include making an automatic weapon, unauthorized possession of a prohibited firearm, careless use of
a firearm or ammunition, and
possessing a weapon with ammunition.
The agreed facts of the case were illustrated by the photo presentation, which showed images of firearms police found.
Loder, who co-operated with officers during the search, also took the stand.
Taught himself to make weapons
Under questioning from Fitzpatrick, he said he was an “incurable collector,” who also enjoys hunting and sport shooting.
He indicated he never intended to use the firearms for criminal purposes and explained that, due to current laws, the only way he could own some of the guns was to manufacture them.
He told the court he taught himself how to make the weapons and that he also relied on reference guides.
Loder said four of the firearms seized at his house —including the AKM and sten gun — were illegal.
He believed all of the guns police found were in working condition.
The estimation value of his collection is $45,000, he said.
“With the exception of family and friends, (my guns) are the most important thing to me,” said Loder.
He said he appreciated the police concern that the weapons could end up in the wrong hands and be used to commit crimes.
It was a lapse in judgement that some firearms were not stored safely, he said.
Loder, who wiped away tears at points, is in the middle of an apprenticeship to become an automotive service technician.
He was working in St. John’s before and after the charges, but took a job in Grand Falls-Windsor a few weeks ago.
He’s from nearby Badger and said it’s always been a dream to return to the area to live and work.
Depending on what Power decides that dream could be dashed or delayed.
Fitzpatrick indicated the Crown could be looking for a sentence of 18 to 24 months. She suggested Loder was hoping for a conditional sentence.
sbartlett@thetelegram.com
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