'Angry' knife man caught with blade in South Shields street

Carl Campbell was spotted with the weapon in Drake Close, South Shields, in August 2020, where he appeared "really angry" and had a clenched fist.

Newcastle Crown Court heard the 35-year-old was approached by two men as he headed to South Eldon Street and was "waving it" towards them before there was some "pushing and shoving".

A witness who saw what happened alerted the police.

Nobody was hurt during the confrontation and Campbell made no reply during interview and gave no explanation for his behaviour.

Campbell, of Galsworthy Road, South Shields, admitted possessing a bladed article.

Judge Tim Gittins sentenced him to five months imprisonment, suspended for 18 months, with rehabilitation and programme requirements and a two-month curfew.

The judge told him: "Your behaviour on August 5 was alarming and dangerous.

"I don't know what the argument was about or why you lost your temper."

Judge Gittins said it must have been "terrifying" for those who witnessed what happened.

He told Campbell: "You have come close to an immediate sentence of imprisonment for this dangerous behaviour."

Penny Hall, defending, said Campbell admitted he was "very stupid and daft" for what he did and added: "He had drank alcohol, he doesn't normally drink very much and it seem that must have had some affect on him."Miss Hall said Campbell has been making a determined effort to find employment and enrolled on trade courses.

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