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Knife Crime
What is it?
A knife is considered an offensive weapon. Knife crime involves any offence where a sharp object is used or carried that can pierce the skin.
Knife crime includes:
Carrying or trying to buy a knife if you’re under 18
Threatening someone with a knife
Owning a banned knife
Injuring or killing someone with a knife
Intending to harm someone with a knife
Committing robbery or burglary while carrying a knife as a weapon
What are the reasons why someone might carry knife?
Common reasons are:
Personal protection
Fear of being attacked or vulnerable
Intent to carry out a revenge attack
Peer pressure, or to gain respect, particularly in relation to gangs
To intimidate
What does the law say?
In England it is illegal to:
Sell a knife to anyone under 18
Carry a knife in public without a good reason.
Carry, buy, or sell any banned knives
Use any knife in a threatening way, even if the knife is legal
Carry a knife for self-protection, even if you feel vulnerable or afraid—it is still illegal
In what circumstances is it legally permitted to carry knives?
Legal and Good Reasons include:
Using it as a work tool (e.g. chef, carpenters/joiners)
Hobbies like fishing or camping
Religious reasons, such as carrying a kirpan