Man is fined £105 for being in possession of knife in street

A man who was found with a knife while wandering the streets of Sunderland in the early hours has been fined.

Magistrates heard 24-yearold Kieron Usher was out and about in the early hours of December 4 after a falling out with his father.

The court heard Usher initially refused to show police officers what was in his pockets.

At South Tyneside Magistrates Court, Paul Anderson, prosecuting, said: “The officer drew his baton and Usher put his hands in the air.

“In his pocket there was a small kitchen knife which had a blade of about three inches.

“Usher told police he had mental health problems, and he planned to use the knife to harm himself.”

Usher, of Moor Close, Hendon, admitted possessing a bladed article on December 4.

Cheryl Ford, defending, said: “Mr Usher suffers from depression, anxiety, and a personality disorder.

“He had been to visit his father, and such visits often exacerbate his conditions.

“That day he had also stopped taking his medication, which made his problems even worse.”

She added: “What Mr Usher told the police was accurate.

“He had no intention to harm any other person with the knife. His medication has now been changed, which means he is feeling much better. He has stable accommodation and he enjoys the support of a good family.”

Usher was sentenced to a community order of 18 months, including 30 days of rehabilitation activity.

He was ordered to pay £105 in fines and costs.

The knife was confiscated and will be destroyed.