Sussex Police Welcomes Change In Law On Offensive Weapons

A change in the law as to what constitutes an offensive weapon, has been welcomed by Sussex Police.

New laws that came in yesterday under the Offensive Weapons Act 2019, the possession of knuckledusters, zombie knives and throwing stars, even in your own home, is now illegal.

New designs of flick knives  and gravity knives are also now illegal as is their private possession.

The Offensive Weapons Act is in place to control the sale of knives and corrosive substances, and introduces new offences on their possession and use.

Police say the new law will help them deal with people intent on using them and make it more difficult to get hold of them in the first place.

Chief Inspector Simon Yates:

“Weapons such as knuckledusters, throwing stars and zombie knives are extremely dangerous and we welcome this move to prevent them from causing harm in our local communities. 

“Our officers will continue to enforce the law to keep the public safe as part of our ongoing commitment to tackle knife crime in Sussex.

"We continue our work to engage and educate the public on the dangers of knife possession by raising awareness among young people in schools.

"We are also working closely with retailers to prevent knives falling into the hands of young people. 

"We all have a part to play in reducing knife crime and keeping the public safe and we would urge anyone with information or concerns to report it to us so we can take action."

Further changes to the Offensive Weapons Act later this year will bring in new provisions for the control of goods sold online which will help Sussex Police to address the issue of the sale of knives online.

Advice from Sussex Police on what to do if you’re worried about knife crime:

If you are under 18, you feel threatened, unsafe or scared about becoming a victim of knife crime you should try to talk with your parent or carer, or alternatively talk to Childline for help on 0800 1111 or go online at childline.org.uk.

If you are a parent or carer and you are concerned someone you care for is in danger of becoming a victim of knife crime, try to talk with them in the first instance or seek advice from Family Lives on 0808 800 22 22.

Whether you are a parent or young person you can contact Sussex Police on 101 to speak with your local Prevention Team.

Who do I report knife crime to?

You can report knife crime online or by calling 101. In an emergency always call 999.

To report knife crime anonymously go to https://www.fearless.org/en/give-info