The alleged victim of a knife crime was arrested by police last night (Thursday, 6 October).
Armed police and local officers rushed to reports of an ongoing disturbance in Sheppard Street, in Swindon town centre, at around 10.30pm.
Witnesses to the incident report hearing a man shouting about somebody putting a knife to his throat and making threats, sparking a significant police response.
The ‘victim’ was spoken to by the police – but refused to provide them with any details about the knife incident he alleged took place at the scene.
He was visibly agitated and became aggressive and abusive towards them the officers, who were ultimately trying to help him following his ‘ordeal’.
They walked up and down the street with him as he spouted vile words and made threats. His behaviour led police to repeatedly warn him that he faces arrest.
Despite the requests to stop and calm down, he continued and officers were forced to arrest the man on suspicion of being drunk and disorderly in a public place.
He was placed into the back of a police car where he continued to abuse the officers and threaten violence and criminal damage. As a result, a cell van was requested.
He was placed into the cell van, despite some resistance, but attempted to bang his head on the cage wall. After more threatening behaviour, he was removed and restrained on the floor for the safety of the officers and himself.
Once leg restraints were applied, he was put back into the van, accompanied by an officer, and taken to Gablecross custody on blue lights.
Wiltshire 999s understands that the man would not provide the police with any details relating to a knife being put against his throat, but an investigation is ongoing.
Wiltshire Police was approached for comment on the incident early this morning (7 October) but did not respond before this article was published.
