Ipswich man admits possession of knife and assaulting police officer during week-long crackdown on knife crime
A 21-year-old man has admitted possession of a knife and assaulting an officer during a week-long crackdown on weapons.
Xander Butler, of Lackford Place, Ipswich, was charged with possession of a knife and two counts of assault by beating, namely a police officer after Suffolk Constabulary carried out checks across the county aimed at tackling knife crime.
The week-long operation - known as Sceptre - was between Monday, November 11 to Sunday, November 17.
Three retailers were reported to Trading Standards after failing to ask for identification during purchase checks and were found to be selling knives to under 18-year-olds.
“It is disappointing,” said Sergeant Jamie Vincent. “The aim was to ensure retailers are compliant with legislation.
“Whether a chain or independent store, all retailers have a responsibility to the safe sale of knives. All staff should ensure they operate a ‘Challenge 25 ID’ age verification check. It is illegal to sell a knife to anyone under the age of 18.
“Officers from our Community Policing Team will be revisiting the stores that failed the tests and working with them to review their current policies and discuss their training process.”
During the week of action, officers carried out high visibility patrols, community and school engagements, six stop searches and 20 weapon sweeps with no knives found.
Of all the arrests made during the week, five were knife-related and one led to a charge.
Butler, 21, appeared at Suffolk Magistrates’ Court on Friday, November 15 where he pleaded guilty to the offences.
He has been remanded in custody and is due to return to the magistrates’ court on Friday, November 29.
Tim Passmore, Suffolk Police and crime commissioner, said: “Talking about the consequences of carrying a knife – both at home and at school – is so important.
“As a parent I know how difficult these conversations can be, but I would urge parents and carers to discuss the dangers of knife crime at home.
“We really do need to join forces to eliminate this dreadful scourge on society.
