An illegally manufactured firearm discovered in the search of a Heffley Creek (photo courtesy of the CFSEU-BC)

By Liam Verster

Ghost Gun Production

Sentence handed down in illegal firearm manufacturing case

Jul 30, 2025 | 3:27 PM

A multi-year investigation into illegal firearm manufacturing has resulted in a sentencing.

The Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit of B.C. (CFSU-BC) launched its investigation into the illegal manufacturing of privately made firearms in the Thompson-Okanagan region in December of 2021.

In October of 2023, charges were laid in connection to this case against Adrian Picketts-Yoxall, who then pleaded guilty to the crime in March of 2025.

On July 30, Picketts-Yoxall appeared in court where he was sentenced to 3.5 years in prison for Firearms Manufacturing and Possession of a Firearm Contrary to an Order.

“The illegal manufacture of firearms poses a serious threat to our communities. This sentencing sends a clear message – we will not tolerate the production of untraceable weapons,” Cpl. Sarbjit K. Sangha, Media Relations Officer CFSEU-BC, said.

Council grants

Vernon to distribute over $50k in Council Discretionary Grants, $20K to the food bank

8h ago

Possible firearm involved

One person apprehended in connection with suspicious activity in Coldstream

Dec 13, 2025

Fatal Collision, Highway Closed

One person dead in crash near Revelstoke

Dec 13, 2025

A previous media release from CFSEU-BC stated Picketts-Yoxall’s firearm manufacturing operation was based out of a residence in Heffley Creek, which is just north of Kamloops.