A cryptocurrency investor and his photographer girlfriend have been convicted following the discovery of weapons, drugs, and cash at a Birmingham apartment tied to a violent shooting.
On January 12, 2024, police raided Kristine Ermansone’s flat at Spectacle Works, Hylton Street, Hockley, searching for her then-boyfriend, 32-year-old Jordan Edwards. Edwards was wanted in connection with a shooting in Bartley Green in August 2023, where one man was shot in the abdomen and his brother seriously injured.
During the raid, officers found a firearm, ammunition, cocaine, and £9,100 in cash concealed throughout the apartment. After a trial at Birmingham Crown Court, Edwards was found guilty of possessing a prohibited weapon, two counts of possessing ammunition without a firearms certificate, possession of class A drugs with intent to supply, and possession of criminal property.
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Ermansone, 37, was cleared of firearm and ammunition charges but convicted of drug supply and possession of criminal property.
Regarding the shooting, Edwards was acquitted of possessing a firearm with intent to endanger life but found guilty of causing grievous bodily harm with intent in relation to the victim’s brother.
The couple, who have since separated, are scheduled for sentencing on February 6.
The incident on August 28, 2023, involved a confrontation at a car park near Woodgate Valley Health Centre in Bartley Green. Edwards was alleged to be linked to two men attempting to rob a van owned by Albanian national Elvis Ftoni. Edwards reportedly arrived armed and fired three shots, hitting Elvis Ftoni. His brother, Aleks Ftoni, was assaulted with a brick.
Edwards denied carrying a gun, claiming Aleks Ftoni produced the weapon, which accidentally discharged during a struggle. Charges of conspiracy to commit robbery were dropped. Edwards admitted fleeing to Amsterdam the day after the incident out of fear of the Ftoni brothers.
At trial, Edwards denied ownership of the items found at Ermansone’s flat, alleging that she had been unfaithful. Ermansone also denied knowledge of the weapons, drugs, or cash. The Latvian professional photographer, who has worked with clients including Red Bull, Amazon, and BT, described her relationship with Edwards as “difficult” and “controlling.” She stated she was unaware of his involvement in the shooting.