Motorist stopped by police in Castledawson had knuckle duster

Before Magherafelt Magistrates Court was Connor Patrick Reece, from Drummaul Park, Randalstown, who admitted a charge of possessing an offensive weapon on September 12 last year.

The court heard the offence came to light when police stopped the 24-year-old at a vehicle checkpoint on the Hillhead Road at 2.30am.

A prosecuting lawyer said police spoke to the defendant and “had reason to carry out a search of the car.”

Counsel said police found the knuckle duster in the pocket of the driver’s door and he admitted to police that he was in possession of it.

A defence barrister, who handed into court a picture of the knuckle duster taken by the defendant, pointed out that the item seized by police was much smaller than the average knuckle duster.

He explained that if the defendant had chosen to contest the case there were a number of matters that could have been raised.

Continuing, the lawyer said the defendant had commenced a joinery course and a job had become available which he hoped to take up.

“He is a young man who still has potential,” added the lawyer, stressing that defendant was also identified as suitable for community service.