Knifeman(25) isjailedatcourt

A Blairgowrie man was stopped and searched after he was suspected of being involved in a drugs exchange.

No illegal substances were discovered but 25-year-old Aaron De Schafta had a lock knife.

The accused, who claimed he had been out fishing earlier and forgot he had the blade in his pocket, was jailed for four-anda-half months at Perth Sheriff Court.

De Schafta, of Myrtle Park, admitted having the knife in Blairgowrie’s Wellmeadow on July 8.

Depute fiscal Michael Sweeney said police were on patrol in the area about 2.30am and De Schafta was seen standing with other individuals.

When he saw the officers he walked in the other direction but was stopped and searched.

The knife had a two-inch straight blade.

Solicitor Billy Somerville said his client had been out fishing that day, put his gear away and went to his girlfriend’s.

He forgot the knife was still in his back pocket.

Imposing the jail term, Sheriff William Wood told De Schafta: “You have an unenviable record showing a number of convictions.

“You have also failed to comply with court orders, including bail and probation.

“I’m satisfied a custodial sentence is appropriate.”

The prison term was backdated to July 9, when De Schafta was remanded.