Offensive Weapons

Question 1

Could an offence of having an offensive weapon, contrary to the Prevention of Crime Act 1953, ever be committed in a place that is privately owned, but publicly accessible?

Answer 1

Yes

Question 2

Could a pair of scissors ever be considered an offensive weapon?

Answer 2

Yes

If intended to be used to cause harm

Question 3

Is a police baton considered to be an offensive weapon?

Answer 3

Yes

It is made to cause injury

Question 4

Would a 4 inch (10cm) folding pocket knife typically be considered an offensive weapon?

Answer 4

No

Not unless it was intended to cause injury

Question 5

Is it usually an offence to possess a 2 inch (6cm) locking knife in a public place?

Answer 5

Yes

Question 6

What is the definition of an offensive weapon?

Answer 6

Any person who without lawful authority or reasonable excuse, the proof of which shall lie with him, has with him in any public place any offensive weapon shall be guilty of an offence