Over 145 knives handed in during police knife amnesty

Devon & Cornwall Police would like to thank their communities for the support they received during the recent knife amnesty (15-21 November) which saw 149 knives of varying types being handed in at police stations across the force area.

All the knives will now be destroyed and are no longer at risk of falling into the wrong hands and being responsible for causing harm. 

A variety of knives were surrendered including small pocketknives, decorative items, and the usual random assortment of knives found in a typical kitchen. 

As part of the week of action the force also responded to intelligence around knife crime, conducted stop searches plus undertook engagement activity with selected retailers, community groups and schools in key areas across the force area.

Police also reminded communities about the changes in legislation which came into effect in July this year, making it an offence to possess certain items, such as knuckledusters, throwing stars and zombie knives, even in a private place.

Guidance on basic laws on knives, banned knives and weapons, and legitimate reasons for carrying a knife can be found on the Government’s website - www.gov.uk/buying-carrying-knives

Detective Chief Inspector Scott Bradley said: “I’m really pleased with the response we’ve had from this amnesty and the public support during the week.  Any knife handed in means there is one less on our streets.  Clearly people have taken this opportunity to hand in these potentially dangerous items which will now be safely destroyed. 

“Devon and Cornwall are two of the safest places to live and work, and whilst knife crime is relatively low compared to other areas of the country, we are not complacent.  Throughout the year we run regular amnesties and undertake prevention work with the intention of keeping knife crime low.

“We would suggest that if anyone still has knives they wish to dispose of and have missed the amnesty they should take these to their local recycling centre.”

--- Note to readers: This message has been disseminated by Devon and Cornwall Police - please visit their official website for further information.