Motorist caught in Sunderland city centre with an axe under her seat banned from driving

Michelle McDermott, 38, of Grasmere Crescent, Shiney Row, was discovered with the implement when stopped in Garden Place, Sunderland city centre, on Friday, June 5, a court heard.

It was not used threateningly and was in her 2005-plate Ford Focus because she used it during camping excursions, South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court was told.

Prosecutor Jeff Taylor said she gave a roadside breath test which proved negative, but then refused to provide a sample of blood which would have proved if drugs were in her system.

He said a search also revealed McDermott was in possession of a quantity of illegal Class B drug cannabis.

Mr Taylor told the court: “She was stopped, and an axe was found under her seat. It is not used to threaten.

“She was clearly under the influence of something. She tested negative for alcohol, but then refused to give a blood sample.

“It’s concerning that she was in possession of an axe. She uses it for camping, but at that time she would not have been able to use it to go camping.”

He said it was clear a Probation Service report into her behaviour would be required to help magistrates sentence McDermott, who has no previous convictions.

McDermott pleaded guilty to possession of a bladed article in relation to the axe, failing to provide a specimen for analysis and possession of drugs.

Joanna Gatens, defending, said: “I agree that a report would be necessary. It’s very clear that she has mental health issues that are worsening.”

Magistrates requested a Probation Service report and handed McDermott an immediate interim driving disqualification.

The magistrates also adjourned her case for sentencing at the same court on Friday, July 17.

They granted her bail on condition she abides by an 8pm to 7am electronically monitored curfew.

She was also warned she risked being arrested if found to have breached her bail conditions and that all sentencing options were open.

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