KNIVES AND THE LAW

 

Here are some facts people should know about knives and the law.

 

It is against the law for any person under the age of 18 to buy a knife.

 

Some knives are illegal to everyone, no matter how old they may be:

 

-Flick Knives - where the blade is hidden inside the handle

and shoots out when a button is pressed. They are also

Called switchblades or automatic knives.

 

-Butterfly Knives - where the blade is hidden inside a handle

Which splits in two around it - like wings. The handles swing

Around the blade to open or close it.

 

-Disguised Knives - the blade is hidden inside something like

A belt buckle or a fake mobile phone.

 

 

It is illegal to carry a knife or weapon unless you have a good enough reason. If the Police think you are carrying a weapon they have the power to stop and search you.

 

Knives under 3 inches (7.62cm) are not illegal, but if used or intended to be used in an offensive way, they then become illegal.

 

In 2007 teachers were given permission to search children for knives at school.

 

At some schools metal detectors have been introduced to prevent children taking knives and other weapons into classrooms.

 

Last year the maximum prison sentence went up from 2 years to 4 years if caught carrying a knife and/or a £5000 fine.

 

If aged 14-16 you could be sent to a young offenders institution or even a secure unit.

 

Children aged between 10-14 may have to spend time with a Social Worker every week instead of being locked up.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

How do you feel about the laws?

 

E-Mail me your thoughts:

 

sarah@sayno2knives.co.uk