A man caught with a kitchen knife in the waistband of his trousers in Watford had it with him for his own protection, a court heard yesterday (Friday).
James Heaney, 23, was stopped by the police at twenty to seven in the evening on February 8 this year.
He told the officers he had it with him because of a previous incident, said Nick Mather prosecuting at St Albans crown court.
Heaney, previously of Throstle Place, Watford, now of William Street, Asthon-under-Lyne, Manchester appeared for sentence having pleaded guilty to having a bladed article.
Defending, Ronnie Bergenthal said Heaney had been the victim of a “nasty assault” in 2020.
He said he had a “complicated past” and now left the Watford area to live with his father in Manchester.
Mr Bergenthal said Heaney had “matured enormously” and wanted to become a car mechanic. At present he receives universal credit.
Judge Michael Simon told him: “Carrying a knife in public is not only illegal it is very dangerous.”
He passed an 18-month community order. Heaney must carry out 30 rehabilitation days, complete 100 hours’ unpaid work and pay £400 costs.
As he left the court Heaney thanked the judge and said: “I am very grateful.”
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