A 32-year-old man has been sentenced to two years and four months in prison after being caught with a knife near a vigil for the victims of the Southport attack. Jordan Davies, a resident of the area, was arrested on July 30 after concerned members of the public reported seeing him wearing a balaclava and carrying a weapon near the memorial gathering.

The vigil held in honour of the three young girls tragically killed in the Southport stabbing, was attended by hundreds of mourners who gathered to pay their respects. The event was meant to be a peaceful commemoration, but tensions were high in the wake of the attack, which has sparked widespread unrest and protests across the country.

Police officers patrolling the area quickly responded to the reports and apprehended Davies, who was found in possession of a large knife. He was arrested on the scene and subsequently charged with possession of a bladed article in a public place.

At his sentencing, the judge condemned Davies’ actions, noting the heightened fear and anxiety in the community following the Southport attack. Carrying a weapon in such a volatile environment, especially near a gathering meant to honour the memory of innocent victims, is a serious offence that cannot be tolerated,” the judge stated.

In court, Davies’ defence argued that he had no intention of using the knife and that he had been carrying it for self-defence, given the recent increase in violence. However, the prosecution highlighted the dangerous and irresponsible nature of bringing a weapon to a public event, especially one as emotionally charged as the vigil.

The judge sentenced Davies to two years and four months in prison, emphasizing the need to send a strong message against carrying weapons, particularly in sensitive and volatile situations.

The Southport attack and its aftermath have left the community on edge, with heightened police presence and increased security measures at public events. Authorities continue to urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity as they work to restore calm and safety to the area.

Davies’ sentencing is seen as part of the broader efforts to crack down on the rising violence and prevent further escalation of tensions in the region.

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