South Shields '˜killer clown' axeman in court

Michael March’s victim, who was 22-weeks into her pregnancy, was so frightened by his “prank” - in Sea Road, South Shields - she picked up a brick to defend herself from him.

The court heard March banged an axe on the ground in front of her.

The 18-year-old wanted to “scare people” during the ‘Killer Clown’ craze just before halloween.

At the time, there were a series of similar attacks across the country.

March was due to be sentenced by a judge at Newcastle Crown Court today, but -because of a problem with the charge he faces - his case has been sent back to South Tyneside Magistrates Court.

It is due to be heard some time before January 9.

March, who has never been in trouble before, had pleaded guilty to possessing an offensive weapon at a previous hearing at South Tyneside Magistrates Court.

The crown court heard today the offence he admitted implies an intention to use the weapon.

The prosecuting authorities accept he did not.

Kevin Wardlaw, prosecuting, told the court: “He wanted to scare people, not injure them.

“He has pleaded guilty to an offence he has not committed.”

Vic Laffey, defending, told the court the correct charge in this case would be possessing a bladed article.

Mr Laffey added: “This isn’t an offensive weapon case.”

Mr Recorder Philip Kramer said the case should be remitted back to the magistrates court.

At this point, March can make an application to change his plea.

March of Hopedene, Leam Lane, Gateshead, was arrested after he was tracked down using cctv.

The alarm was raised following a call to the police on October 30 about a clown carrying and axe and scaring people.

It was claimed March had ran off with a pal after the “prank”.