A Brighton drug addict pleaded for a custodial sentence when she was sentenced for possession of an offensive weapon.
Susan Goodison, 44, of North Street, Brighton, admitted possession of an offensive weapon when she appeared at Brighton Magistrates' Court on Thursday, 1st June 2023.
She was sentenced by the same court on Wednesday, 17th January 2024.
Possession of an offensive weapon in a public place is an offence contrary to section 1 of the Prevention of Crime Act 1953. It has a maximum penalty of 26 weeks' custody and/or an unlimited fine on summary conviction; 4 years' custody and/or an unlimited fine on conviction on indictment.
Possession of a knuckle-duster, as in this case, is actually an offence in a private place as well, as discussed in our recent article "A Brief Guide to Offensive Weapons in Private Places".
Magistrates heard that Goodison, who was then living in the city's Regency Square, assaulted one of her neighbours on Tuesday, 2nd May 2023.
During the assault she brandished a cat-shaped knuckle duster, which she said she kept hung around her neck in case it was needed for self-defence.
The case had previously been adjourned for the preparation of a pre-sentence report, but for whatever reason one was never completed.
Linda Filby, mitigating, said: "She requests that you give her a short custodial sentence, she wants to go into prison to detox. She thinks that will be the best way.
"She bought the item from Amazon. I also express some concern that it was available online. She did not realise it was illegal and had it for self-protection.
"She wants to go into prison to detox because he has various problems with drugs."
At that stage Goodison, who was tearful in the dock, called across to her solicitor: "I am asking them to help me."
The Bench indicated that it was minded to deal with the offence by way of a community order, but Goodison said she would not cooperate with the Probation Service.
Having discussed the circumstances with their Legal Advisor, Magistrates proceeded to sentence Goodison, in the absence of a report, to a short term in custody.
Nigel Peacock JP, Presiding Justice, said: "We have explored the guidelines for this offence. We also have to decide whether you would cooperate [with a community order].
"It is with a heavy heart that the Bench is going to sentence you to custody for four weeks."
Goodison was also ordered to pay £85 towards prosecution costs and £154 surcharge.
She turned to the Magistrates and thanked them for their decision.
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