Man had knife as he thought he was in danger

A 21-year-old man was carrying a knife because he thought he was being followed, Sligo District Court heard. Mark O’Dowd, of Leaffoney, Kilglass, Co Sligo was charged with possession of a knife at Ashbury Lodge, Ballinode on October 20 th 2017. A further charge of trespass at the same address on the same date was struck out. Mr John Gordon solicitor (defending) said his client had been a student at the time in IT Sligo. He had mental health problems and was engaging with the mental health services and his psychosis was that thought he was being followed by people and he took it inot his head to carry a knife.

He had since given up college and was working and doing well. Inspector Donal Sweeney said on the date in question at 3:20am gardaí found the defendant with a black handled kitchen knife with a 4” blade. He admitted taking it from a house in Glencarrig for his own protection. He had not come to garda attention since.

Judge Kevin Kilrane said he was giving him a chance and applied the Probation Act.