A MAN from Dorchester has been sentenced to 12 months in prison for possessing a 7.9cm Stanley blade in public.

Adrian Hurst, 32, was found to have the knife in his pocket during a search by officers in the early hours of yesterday (Thursday, February 19).

Hurst was charged with possession of a knife blade or sharp pointed article in a public place.

He pled guilty at court later in the afternoon and was immediately sentenced.

The maximum prison sentence for carrying a knife is four years, but if the knife is used in crime or to injure someone, the penalties can be significantly harsher.

Dorset Police say it will relentlessly pursue anyone who decides to carry a knife, whether there is an intention to use it or not.

Officers continue to take part in national campaigns, carry out enforcement activities, deliver educational presentations to school children and carry out test purchases at retailers selling knives.

Det Sgt Kate Bleese said: “Although Dorset has low rates of knife crime and is a safe place to live, it is important that we continue our efforts to remove knives from the streets.

“Hurst was in possession of a knife in a public place, and this is unacceptable. We are pleased he is now behind bars and facing justice for his actions.”

Anyone with information or concerns about someone carrying a knife, can contact police online.

Information can be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.