A MAN told cops he was carrying a knife due to being threatened by 'someone who tried to attack him with a weapon'.

Stephen Barrett, 28, was stopped by cops whilst driving at Antonine, Kirkintilloch, on September 9 last year.

At Glasgow Sheriff Court, procurator fiscal depute Monique Cooney said: “Police were within an unmarked vehicle when they observed the accused driving a BMW X5.

“They had reason to stop him. He stated he was driving to visit his mother for a meal. His partner, who was in the passenger seat, was holding takeaway food that had previously been purchased.

“Enquiries were made as there was not a valid insurance policy in place. Officers had reason to search the accused and during this search, they found a utility knife in his pocket.

“He stated he had been working and stripping wires. The police examined the boot and there was a large number of tools and parts.

“The accused then stated he was actually carrying the knife due to threats made by a male who previously tried to attack him with a knife.

“He was warned he was under caution and apologised and stated he would never use the knife and it was for self-defence if anyone came to him.

“He was cautioned and charged and made no reply.”

Barrett, from Hamilton, appeared in court for sentencing after previously pleading guilty to being in possession of the offensive weapon and driving without insurance.

His defence solicitor said: “He has reached the age of 28 without accruing any convictions until this matter.

“The knife is part of his toolkit but because he has received threats on occasions, he put it in his pocket after using it.

“That part of his life is now stabilised, but he recognises supervision would assist him. He would be willing to do unpaid work and comply with a restriction of liberty order.”

Sheriff Charles Lugton told Barrett: “People are often sent to jail for carrying knives. What I have taken into account here is that it’s your first offence.”

He was ordered to carry out 135 hours of unpaid work as a direct alternative to custody and be under social work supervision for 12 months.