Representing himself Mr Debusch pleaded guilty when facing charges of not keep firearm safely, possess an unauthorised firearm, use an unauthorised firearm and handle/use a firearm under the influence of alcohol in front of Magistrate Peter Dare SC.

“Aren’t you a silly beggar?” Magistrate Dare said.

According to police, the 21-year-old had come across the air-rifle at Monteagle Rubbish Tip last year.

“The accused took possession of the firearm and ammunition, wrapped them up in a cloth because he knew that he shouldn’t have them and he took them home where he hid them behind a cupboard in a shed on the property,” police said.

According to police Mr Debusch had used the gun for a six month period to shoot cans and magpies for fun. 

Mr Debusch did not hold a firearms licence at the time of the incident.

Police facts said on December 26, 2016, Mr Debusch and a friend consumed about half a case of Jack Daniels and Cola drinks at his residence. 

Police said later in the day Mr Debusch got the firearm out to shoot at cans.

About 6 pm that day Mr Debusch, while well affected by liquor, went to put the firearm away and bumped a table causing the non-guarded trigger to discharge resulting in a round becoming lodged in Mr Debusch’s left elbow.

Mr Debush was driven to Young District Hospital where he sought treatment but found medical staff couldn’t assist him. 

Mr Debusch was referred to attend the Wagga Wagga referral hospital.

On December 27, 2016, Mr Debusch drove himself to Wagga for treatment. 

When Mr Debusch informed medical staff of how his injury had occurred, hospital staff followed protocols which resulted in police being called.

While talking to police Mr Debusch made full admissions to finding the firearm and ammunition at the Monteagle Rubbish Tip and using the unregistered firearm whilst unlicensed, unsafe storage of the firearm and using the firearm whilst intoxicated. 

Later the same day police attended Mr Debusch’s address and seized the firearm from the back seat of his vehicle.