Knifeman jailed for police threat

A 23-year-old man has been jailed for 18 months after admitting threatening police officers with two knives outside his home in Northamptonshire.

Judge Richard Bray at Northampton Crown Court said the "days of lenient sentences" for knife crimes were over.

Thomas Boyce, of Eaton Close, Weedon, had pleaded guilty to common assault against his ex-girlfriend and affray.

The court heard Boyce had assaulted his ex-girlfriend, the mother of his child, when she bumped into him on a night out in Northampton town centre in the early hours of 18 May.

DRINK AND DRUG PROBLEMS

Alexandra Bull, prosecuting, said she had approached him, asking him why she had not been able to get in touch with him because he owed her money.

"When he walked away, she shouted at him, at which point he turned around and punched her in the stomach before running away.

"Later that day on Eaton Close, Boyce had threatened to stab a police officer who tried to search him. He was seen brandishing two knives."

Boyce was finally restrained by officers and a police dog.

Steven Evans, defending, said Boyce had a long history of drink and drugs which led to problems.

He said he was reconciled with his ex-girlfriend, who had been visiting him while he was on remand.

"He has decent parents, a decent job, and has always worked.

"He now has responsibilities for a young son so the prospects for him avoiding further trouble are there."