Joshua Sykes claimed he carried knives for protection from drug debts. He avoided jail with supervision.
The Sheriff, Eilidh Macdonald, heard the case. Sykes said he needed the knives for protection. He claimed drug debts caused his fear. This happened on June 4th and September 9th.
A black kitchen knife was found first. It had a five-inch blade. Next, they found a lock knife. That knife was eight and a half inches long.
Sykes was fidgeting with his waistband. Police found the lock knife there. He rode his bicycle in Railway Terrace. He seemed to be under the influence.
The court learned he’d been in custody since September 10th. This is like a 12-month sentence already. He’s trying to fix his problems. He also has a job waiting for him.
The sheriff decided not to send him to jail. Instead, he got one year of supervision from social work. Macdonald hopes this helps him avoid future crimes. Sykes admitted possessing knives illegally. He had no good excuse. This sentence lets him avoid prison.