Sharif Cousins, a former member of the Burger Bar Boys gang, has been sentenced to 12 years in prison, plus an additional three years on licence, after being convicted for his role in a frightening shooting incident in Walsall. Cousins, who has a long criminal history including firearm-related offenses, denies his guilt and plans to appeal the sentence.
The violent episode unfolded on May 26 last year when Cousins and an accomplice approached a family home on Princethorpe Road, Willenhall. A revolver was fired through a window in the dead of night, with one bullet piercing through the kitchen into a pantry cupboard. Thankfully, the family inside—two parents, their children, and a grandparent—escaped injury. Another shot struck a car parked outside as a so-called warning shot.
James Gray, 28, acted as the getaway driver, steering the trio away in a borrowed mobility car. Both Cousins and Gray were charged with possessing a firearm with intent to endanger life after being found guilty in court.
READ MORE: I Tried Fish Fingers from 7 Supermarkets – An 80p Pack Tasted Better Than Birds Eye
READ MORE: Huge Aston Villa Europa League Fan Event Moved to Utilita Arena
At Birmingham Crown Court, Judge Dean Kershaw acknowledged the extreme danger posed to the family and the sheer luck that no one was harmed. He highlighted that the shots could have killed anyone inside, including children. Cousins was branded a “dangerous offender,” reflecting his extensive record dating back to 1997, which includes previous gun offenses and violence. Gray, despite no firearm convictions, had a history of stabbing.
During sentencing, defence lawyers emphasized that neither man admitted to firing the gun and sought to contextualize their clients’ actions. Cousins struggles with PTSD and trauma and has contributed positively by working as a prison chef and supporting others behind bars. Gray, meanwhile, took responsibility as the driver but claimed he was unaware that shots would be fired. His lawyer noted his past efforts to break a violent family cycle by being a positive influence on his step-daughter.
Judge Kershaw condemned the planned and dangerous nature of the attack, expressing sorrow for the impact on families involved—especially noting Cousins’ absence at the birth of his newborn child. He lamented Cousins' return to crime despite previously attempting to uplift his community.
Both men received reminders of the serious consequences of their actions, with Judge Kershaw emphasizing the critical role of the getaway driver and the high risk Cousins still poses to public safety. The ruling serves as a stark warning that involvement in such violent, planned crimes will lead to severe punishment.