Teenager with a knife was 'dangerously out of control' during a prolonged police stand-off in Sunderland

Callum Dunn, 19, of Pearl Road, Plains Farm, Sunderland, was involved in a stand-off with police after he went to the upstairs the property on Sunday, April 12.

His own defence solicitor admitted to a judge at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court that it was a “serious offence”.

District Judge Kathryn Meek has now remanded Dunn into custody until his expected sentencing on May 12.

Jobless Dunn admitted a charge of threatening unlawful violence when he appeared in the dock.

The court heard the offence, described as a “prolonged incident”, involved a knife and threats.

Jason Smith, defending, said: “It’s a serious matter. It’s a serious offence.

“He had taken tablets, that were not prescribed. He accepts that he has had and does have a problem with drugs.

“He’s obviously devastated by his behaviour, which he promises not to repeat.

“His gran would say that 99 per cent of the time he’s a fantastic young person.

“She does know that he has an issue with drugs and that it is something that he is struggling with.”

Mr Smith added: “He is absolutely petrified at the prospect of being remanded in custody. It is the fillip to bring him to his senses.

“When he’s not using drugs, his gran says he’s the best lad in the world, but this incident certainly can’t be said to be minor, it’s certainly not.

“His mum is not impressed by his behaviour.”

Prosecutor Paul Anderson said only: “His gran doesn’t wish to have any face-to-face contact with him.”

Remanding Dunn in custody, Judge Meek told him he had been “highly dangerously out of control”.

She added: “It’s a prolonged period, that’s threatened a number of people with a significant weapon.”

Judge Meek ordered the preparation of a Probation Service report into Dunn’s character.

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