What Happens If You’re Caught with a Knife in Cornwall? Police Hit the Streets to Warn Locals

Knife Arch and Safety Talks in Town Centres

Police officers across Liskeard, Torpoint, Saltash and Looe have spent the week talking to people about the dangers of carrying knives. The work was part of Sceptre, a national week of action focused on tackling knife crime.

Neighbourhood police officers set up stands in town centres, spoke with members of the public and showed people how a ‘knife arch’ works. The metal detection arch was used as a way to spark conversations and highlight how police are working to prevent crime before it happens.

They also visited local retailers to refresh them on the law around selling knives.

“Knife Crime Isn’t a Major Problem Here – But the Consequences Can Be”

PC Hayley Gething, who led the work, said: “Knife crime isn’t a major problem in Cornwall. However, if an incident does occur the outcome can be devastating. This work forms part of our approach to educate and deter people from deciding to carry a knife, so that we can prevent crime from happening now or in the future to keep our communities safe.

“We had some great chats with members of the public, who were interested in finding out more about this topic. The knife arch was also a fantastic talking point to raise awareness of the preventative work we do in Cornwall, drawing lots of people over to try it out.

“Encouraging open conversations like this is key to empowering people to make safe decisions, whether it impacts the person we speak to or if that person shares their knowledge with someone they know. It’s all vital in our efforts to tackle knife crime.”

School Visits and Youth Engagement

As part of the awareness week, Police Community Support Officers and representatives from Mike’s Trust also visited schools and youth groups to speak directly with young people.

Mike’s Trust is a charity set up after the death of 32-year-old Michael Riddiough-Allen, who was killed outside Eclipse Nightclub in 2023. The charity works to educate and support young people to prevent knife crime and give them better opportunities.

PC Gething added: “This deterrent and preventative work will continue throughout the year. We want to keep our streets safe and work like this is key in helping us achieve that.”

What You Need to Know

• If you’re found with a knife in a public place, you can be arrested, charged and get a criminal record.

• It’s illegal to sell a knife to anyone under 18.

• Adults caught carrying a knife or weapon illegally can face up to four years in prison, an unlimited fine or both.

• Repeat offences will lead to a prison sentence.

If you’re worried about someone carrying a knife, you can report it anonymously to Crimestoppers UK on 0800 555111 or directly to Devon & Cornwall Police. Your information could help save a life.