A FORMER Leeds United player has been convicted for his role in a guns and drug conspiracy after being caught by the National Crime Agency.

Paul Shepherd, 43, of Stainbeck Lane, Chapel Allerton, Leeds, was found guilty of possessing a Glock semi-automatic pistol and a Howa bolt-action rifle, and of two counts of possession of cocaine.

The former defender, who made one appearance for Leeds United, against Arsenal in 1996, also played for Luton Town, Ayr United, Oldham Athletic, Scarborough and Harrogate Town, as well as playing for England Under 20s at the 1997 FIFA World Youth Championship.

Officers from the National Crime Agency caught Shepherd as part of an investigation linked to Operation Venetic at his home with the weapons and 200 rounds of ammunition in April 2020.

The NCA began an investigation after finding an encrypted Encro phone and drugs in his home; he had been stopped earlier in his car by West Yorkshire Police who found a block of cocaine in his car.

Messages on the seized Encro phone linked Shepherd to the guns and triggered further arrests in West Yorkshire, Merseyside and the North East.

Those arrested included Gerard Wignall, 33, from Merseyside who was jailed for 16 months last month after his DNA was found on the rifle, which was linked to a commercial burglary.

Carl O'Flaherty, 36, of Leysholme Terrace, Wortley, Leeds, was also arrested last June, and he admitted multiple drugs and firearms charges last July. Evidence showed O'Flaherty helped source the gun for Shepherd and took payment for it.

A third Leeds man, Shane Kameka, 40, also pleaded guilty to supplying guns, acting as a courier, transporting the rifle from Merseyside. He awaits sentencing.

Clinton Blakey, 36, of Dunstarn Drive, Adel, Leeds is currently wanted by the NCA after failing to appear at court in August; he's been charged with assisting in the supply of guns.

Following a three day trial at Leeds Crown Court, Shepherd was found guilty of the four charges he faced. He and O'Flaherty are charged with further drugs supply offences which are due to go to trial in May 2022, after which their sentences will be decided.

Nigel Coles, NCA Operations Manager, said: “Shepherd went to great lengths to acquire dangerous firearms that were criminally sourced.

“We’re pleased that the evidence presented at court this week has secured a guilty verdict and hope further charges can be proven at a later date.

“The seriousness of gun crime cannot be underestimated. Had we not intercepted these weapons they would have been used to threaten and intimidate others with the potential loss of life.

"Criminals like Shepherd, O’Flaherty and Kameka perpetuate violent crime and are only motivated by financial gain. Reducing the availability of illegal firearms remains a priority for the NCA.

“We are still seeking one other man involved in this investigation.

“Anyone with information on Clinton Blakey’s whereabouts is urged to contact the National Crime Agency on 0370 496 7622 or contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.”