A man from Ipswich has been charged with the assault of an officer and possession of a knife after a week-long crackdown on weapons.
Young volunteer cadets and officers from Suffolk police were carrying out checks across the county from Monday, November 11 to Sunday, November 17 as part of a bi-annual week to crack down on knife crime, called Sceptre.
Police say three shops across Suffolk failed the purchase checks that were carried out and were found to be selling weapons to under 18-year-olds.
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Officers say one of the shops which failed the test was in east Suffolk and two were in west Suffolk.
Six stop searches and 20 weapon sweeps were carried out leading to five knife-related arrests.
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In Ipswich, Xander Butler, of Lackford Place, was charged with possession of a knife and two counts of assault by beating, namely an officer.
The 21-year-old 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 Suffolk Magistrates’ Court on Friday.
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Sergeant Jamie Vincent said: “It is disappointing that three shops failed the purchase checks and sold a weapon to an under-18-year-old.
“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.
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"It is illegal to sell a knife to anyone under the age of 18."
Suffolk police and crime commissioner, Tim Passmore, 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.”
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