A man has been sentenced to three life sentences following a shooting at a south London barber’s shop.

Joel Johnson, 27 (25.03.88) of Baildon Street, SE8 was sentenced at the Old Bailey today, Friday, 22 January, and will serve a minimum of 14 years imprisonment.

Detective Inspector Maria Harris, from the Met’s Trident and Area Crime Command, said:”Johnson has a history of violence and is a very dangerous man. On that day in May he fired a gun into a crowded shop without a care for who he may injure. It is fortunate that no one was killed that afternoon.

“Detectives from Trident continue to work hard to arrest those individuals who carry guns and threaten violence on the capital’s streets.

“Today’s sentencing reflects how seriously the courts take this behaviour and should stand as a warning to those who carry out these reckless and dangerous crimes.”

Detectives from the Trident and Area Crime Command launched an investigation after a 38-year-old woman was shot in the leg whilst she was sitting in a barber’s shop, with other customers and children, on Rotherhithe New Road, SE16 on 8 May 2015.

The woman was an innocent bystander who was caught up in a violent altercation between several men that began outside the shop. The fight continued inside; Johnson appeared in the doorway and produced a handgun before opening fire.

The bullet passed through the woman’s leg and was later found on the floor. The woman was taken to a south London hospital where she was treated for her injuries.

Officers carried out extensive enquiries and identified Johnson as the gunman.

On the night of 17 June 2015, Johnson was arrested by armed officers on suspicion of attempted murder and possession of a firearm. He was taken to a south London police station and was charged with numerous firearms offences.

He appeared for trial at the Old Bailey and was found guilty of multiple offences on 14 December 2015, for which he was sentenced as follows:

• Attempted murder: Sentenced to life imprisonment to serve a minimum of 14 years;

• Wounding with intent: Sentenced to life imprisonment to serve a minimum of seven-and-a-half years [to run concurrently];

• Possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life: Sentenced to life imprisonment to serve a minimum of six years [to run concurrently].

Johnson had previously pleaded guilty at the same court in September 2015 to possession of a firearm and possession of ammunition. He was sentenced to seven years and three years imprisonment to run concurrently.

Police are continuing to appeal for information to trace another man who they wish to speak with in connection with the ongoing investigation into the fight at the barber’s shop.

Meanwhile, Detectives would like to speak with Igho Ejeta, 29 (28.03.86) from south London or anyone who knows of his whereabouts. Anyone with information should contact officers via 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Source: MetPolice NewsDesk