News / More time in custody on knife charge
A MAN who admitted possessing a locking flick knife in a public place without reasonable excuse has been remanded in custody ahead of sentencing next month.
Adam Nelson, whose address was given as Grampian Prison, appeared from custody at Lerwick Sheriff Court on Wednesday to admit the charge, which took place on the town’s Commercial Street on 17 June.
The 28 year old had been in custody since 19 June when he first appeared on the charge.
Procurator fiscal Duncan Mackenzie said Nelson was stopped and searched by police in the afternoon before he voluntarily said he had a knife on him which he had just bought.
The fiscal said the item was a “classic flick knife” with a blade of 9cm that could be described as something used for “concealing as a weapon” as it had no utilitarian value.
Defence agent Tommy Allan said his client had something of a “fascination” with these type of knives and had a collection of them.
He said the knife was not in any packaging as Nelson had bought it from someone.
Allan said Nelson, a well known face in the court, had been “devastated” about his return to custody as he felt community payback orders he had been on were going well.
Taking into account his past record, Sheriff Philip Mann said the charge was a “very serious offence”.
He added that he himself was “very disappointed” to see Nelson back in the dock.
Sentence was deferred until 13 September to allow a criminal justice social work report to be prepared, with Nelson remanded in the meantime.
Sheriff Mann said it was clear that “jail hasn’t worked” for Nelson and suggested that a community payback order could be in his thinking when sentencing.
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.
Already a supporter? Sign in to hide this message.
