Man with psychosis, anxiety, and depression carrying a large kitchen knife in public released on bail
Daniel Bateman, 42, of Quadrant Court in Bracknell, was found with the knife without lawful authority on Broad Lane in Bracknell on May 9.
He appeared at Readings Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, August 5, charged with possession of a knife blade or sharp pointed article in a public place.
However, Bateman said he was carrying the knife for self-defence.
In court, it was heard that he has previously been a victim of serious assault and suffers from psychosis, anxiety, and depression and has issues with numbness in his hands as a result of his injuries.
He also had a serious head injury, which left him with scarring following the assault.
Bateman told the court he has been trying to put his life back together following the recent death of his mother.
During the hearing, the judge said possession of a knife in public carries a custodial sentence with a starting point of six months.
Despite the seriousness of the charge, Bateman was granted unconditional bail.
He will appear at Reading Magistrates' Court on September 17 for the preparation of a pre-sentence report.
https://www.bracknellnews.co.uk/news/26443464.man-42-carried-large-kitchen-knife-bracknell-safety/