A man was carrying a deadly machete because he ‘keeps getting stabbed’, a court heard.
22-year-old Elhadj Seck was arrested by firearms officers in Crombey Street, Swindon, on 31 March this year over concerns he may have been involved in a spate of robberies.
Following the gunpoint arrest, the defendant told police that he had a knife in his waistband. On searching him, they discovered a large machete in a leather sheath.
Kate Prince, prosecuting the case at Swindon Magistrates’ Court today (Tuesday), said that Seck told officers: “I’d rather defend myself than be stabbed”.
Defence solicitor Luke Jameson said his client had been “stabbed several times in the past” and fears further attacks – adding that it’s “not a very good excuse, but it’s not a fanciful fear”.
He said the defendant, of Godolphin Close, Freshbrook, has been offered a record deal, but currently works in logistics.
Magistrates imposed a 12-week prison sentenced suspended for 12 months. They told Seck to complete 250 hours of unpaid work. He must also pay costs and a surcharge.
At the time of his arrest by armed police, a force spokesperson tweeted: “This serious weapon was located during searches, and is now off our streets! It’s been swapped for a plastic spork in custody!”
No further action was taken against the defendant in relation to the robberies.
