A Swindon man has been jailed for 26 weeks after being caught with a knife in public.

Daniel Ebanks, 46, of Exeter Street, Swindon, appeared at Swindon Magistrates' Court on Thursday, November 21, after being charged with possession of a bladed article in a public place and theft by shoplifting.

Mr Ebanks pleaded guilty to both offences and was sentenced to 26 weeks' imprisonment for the blade offence, with no separate penalty for the theft.

He was also required to pay a victim surcharge of £154 and costs of £85.

The court heard how on October 1 Mr Ebanks was seen walking along Havelock Street towards patrolling officers, before turning and making off from them.

After a short foot pursuit, he was caught and searched, with officers locating a kitchen knife and several items of clothing with labels attached in his bag. 

PC Bezzant of the Swindon Central South NPT said: "There can never be any justification for carrying a knife in a public place.

"Tackling knife crime is a top priority for Wiltshire Police and we will ensure that anybody who is caught carrying a knife will be arrested, charged and put before the courts."

 

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