Telford samurai sword man found after a tip-off

A man was jailed for nine months this afternoon after being discovered carrying a Samurai sword and knuckle duster in Telford.

Police found the weapons on James Stubbins, 30, of Stone Row, Malinslee, Telford, after they were tipped off by an anonymous caller, Shrewsbury Crown Court heard.

He admitted to having an offensive weapon and a bladed article in Dark Lane Drive, Malinslee on September 26 last year.

Stubbins appeared at Shrewsbury Crown Court today for sentencing.

Recorder Mr William Edis said: "You did not brandish the weapons about and did not take them out with crime in mind. But possessing offensive weapons is always a serious offence and will be dealt with seriously.

"The Samurai sword had a lengthy blade and is an extremely dangerous weapon. The knuckle duster speaks for itself. You have a bad criminal record."

Mr Kevin Jones, prosecuting, said police had received an anonymous call and had detained Stubbins after he attempted to run away.

The Samurai sword was found in the waistband of his trousers and the knuckle duster was found in a glove.

He said: "The defendant was taken to the police station but police decided not to interview him straight away because of concerns of his mental health.

"Police destroyed the sword and knuckle duster."

Mr Michael Anning, for Stubbins, said his client was moving the items to a more secure location rather than intending to use them.

He said: "He admitted being in possession of the items and nobody was threatened. He was in the process of moving them from his flat to his partner's premises.

"His own flat was left unsecure and he was concerned that a young member of his extended family would get access to them."

He said Stubbins had had a number of difficult issues including a drug problem.

He said: "He has made efforts to get off drugs. He's in full-time employment for the first time in his life."