A woman has been charged with numerous offences after an armed stand-off in Melksham.
Zara Nightshade is accused of threatening her mother, sister and two police officers with a ceremonial dagger at her address in Foundry Close on 2 December.
The alleged incident sparked a six-hour armed stand-off, with firearms officers and specially-trained negotiators called in to deal with the situation.
Prosecutor Pauline Lambert told Swindon Magistrates’ Court today (Wednesday) that the defendant “put a knife” to her mother and sister and “threatened to harm them”.
This is said to have resulted in the pair fleeing the address and locking themselves in a car outside ahead of police being called to the scene.
When local police officers arrived, it is alleged that Police Constable Goodall and Sergeant Davis were also threatened with the bladed weapon.
Nightshade is also charged with assault by beating and harassment – both against her mother.
She did not enter any pleas on the advice of solicitor Liz Highams, who said she was concerned about her ability to understand the implications. She also said that a full psychiatric report is required.
Ms Lambert added that the defendant was sectioned under Section 136 of the Mental Health Act following the incident and asks for her to be remanded in custody.
No pleas were entered and the case was sent to Swindon Crown Court. She was remanded in custody and will next appear for a plea hearing on 6 January.
