Man admits assaulting PC and possessing offensive weapon after brandishing a 'significant' knife in row

The case was heard at South Tyneside Law Courts.

Josh Howard, 23, of Church Street, had possession of the “large” blade when confronted by the PC at Huntley Terrace, Ryhope, on Monday, May 11.

The officer had been called to deal with another incident between Howard and the homeowner, South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court heard.

Howard and the other man were known to each other and it appeared the initial flare-up had been resolved, it was said.

But trouble broke out for a reason undisclosed to the court – and the defendant produced the knife, which he had taken from inside the property.

Howard is now facing a jail term of at least six months after pleading guilty to assaulting the officer and possession of an offensive weapon.

He is due to be sentenced at Newcastle Crown Court on Wednesday, June 10.

District Judge Kathryn Meek said: “It’s a significant knife in dangerous circumstances. He’s brandishing it at the officer.”

Prosecutor Glenda Beck told the hearing: “The initial call out by the police appeared to have been dealt with and then the knife has been brought and brandished.”

Joanne Gatens, defending, said: “I accept that he’s brandishing it. There was nobody else present.

“This young man has significant issues that need to be dealt with.”

Howard was granted bail on condition he resides at his home address, does not contact prosecution witnesses and does not enter an area of Sunderland bordered by the River Wear, the North Sea, the A19 and the A1080.

The court heard a second person had been involved in the overall altercation and had been released by police under investigation.

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