Knife-wielding Wigan drunk terrified children, magistrates hear

Children were left frightened and distressed after a drunken Wigan man wielded a blade in the street, justices heard.

By Charles Graham

Published 25th Jul 2022, 15:44 BST

Updated 25th Jul 2022, 15:44 BST

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Craig Simmons, 51, of Bulteel Street, Pemberton, appeared before Wigan magistrates to admit to being armed with a kitchen knife near his home on May 15.

He was given a six-month prison sentence which was suspended for 18 months.

Magistrates told him they were imposing a custodial sentence because "the knife was brandished and seen by neighbours as well as children, causing distress and harm, and the offence was committed under influence of alcohol.

But the bench also conceded there was a good prospect of rehabilitation.

Simmons was ordered to complete a course for people with a drink problem and 10 days of rehabilitation activities as part of his community punishment.

Knife-wielding Wigan drunk terrified children, magistrates hear

Magistrates told him they were imposing a custodial sentence because "the knife was brandished and seen by neighbours as well as children, causing distress and harm, and the offence was committed under influence of alcohol.

But the bench also conceded there was a good prospect of rehabilitation.

He must also pay £213 to victim services and the courts.