THIS week I would like to issue a timely reminder about offences relating to carrying knives and offensive implements in a public place.
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While locally, these types of offences are not occurring at an alarming rate, Shoalhaven police continue to find people carrying knives and other implements, which they often claim to be for self-defence.
This is not a lawful reason to be carrying these items in a public place.
An offensive implement in simple terms is any item that is modified to, or intended to, menace another person, cause injury to another person, or damage property.
If you think about it, just about anything could fall into this category.
If somebody is deemed to be carrying an offensive implement in a public place, they may be liable to a court imposed penalty of up to $5500 and/or two years’ imprisonment.
If somebody is carrying a knife in a public place without a lawful excuse, they may be subject to an on-the-spot fine of $550 or a court imposed penalty of up to $2200 and/or two years’ imprisonment.
For action to be taken in relation to these offences, the items need not be visible at the time, nor do they need to be directly on the person’s body.
You may be subject to the same penalties if these items are located in your vehicle or other belongings in a public place.
Shoalhaven Police continue to work hard in an effort to curb these incidents, and have no hesitation in taking action against identified offenders.
Your vigilance and willingness to report such incidents goes a long way towards helping fight the battle, so please help us help you and report these matters to police if you see or hear about them.
In case of emergency, call triple-0. For non-emergencies contact PoliceLink on 131444 or your local police station. To provide anonymous information contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.