THOMAS JENKINS, a 19-year-old resident of Briton Ferry, has been sentenced to an 18-month community order following his guilty plea to the charge of possessing a knife in a public place. The case was heard at Swansea Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, July 31, where Jenkins admitted to the offence, which occurred earlier this year on Monday, July 3, in Swansea city centre.
The court was informed that the incident began when Jenkins, who was with his girlfriend, was confronted by two men while crossing a footbridge. The men, who were reportedly intoxicated, began hurling verbal abuse at the couple, with one of them brandishing a can of lager as a weapon. Feeling threatened, Jenkins concealed a knife behind his back—a knife he claimed was typically used for cutting rope and string.
The situation quickly escalated, prompting concerned members of the public to contact the police. Armed officers arrived at the scene, where they apprehended Jenkins and two other males involved in the altercation. During the arrest, Jenkins complied with police instructions, placing the knife on the ground before being taken into custody. He sustained facial injuries during the confrontation and was subsequently taken to Morrison’s Hospital in Swansea for treatment.
In court, Jenkins, who has no previous convictions, expressed regret for his actions, acknowledging the illegality of carrying a knife in public. He stated that he had drawn the knife solely in self-defence, fearing for his safety during the altercation. A pre-sentence report, a letter of apology, and a character reference were submitted on his behalf, highlighting his remorse and the absence of any prior criminal record.
Jenkins is described as a well-educated young man, having completed 11 GCSEs and attended college. He is currently employed part-time at Domino’s and is awaiting paperwork to start an apprenticeship as a welder and fabricator. Jenkins also harbours ambitions of joining the Royal Air Force, having already undergone relevant training.
Presiding over the case, Mr Recorder Simon Hughes sentenced Jenkins to an 18-month community order, which includes the completion of rehabilitation activities. As part of his sentence, Jenkins is required to undertake unpaid work as directed by the court, contributing positively to the community. He was also reminded of the importance of fully cooperating with the supervising officer overseeing his rehabilitation.
The court made it clear that any failure to comply with the terms of the court order could result in further legal action, including additional custody time.
