Number of replica guns and knives seized at court revealed
KNIVES, replica fire arms and tools are just some of the items which have been seized by security at Crawley Magistrates’ Court in the last two years.
Information obtained under the Freedom of Information act showed 359 items had been confiscated in 2010, while 212 had been confiscated between January 1 2011 and October 3 2011 when the court closed for refurbishment.
Some 66 knives with blades less than three inches, four fixed blade knives, two replica fire arms, 61 tools, 202 cameras, 48 recorders and 107 alcoholic drinks were seized during that time.
Other items included umbrellas, aerosols and soft drink cans.
In a letter released by Her Majesty’s Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) it said it takes the issue of security within courts “very seriously”.
A spokesperson added: “There is a rigorous system in place to ensure the safety of all court users. This includes mandatory bag searches, and the use of metal detectors and surveillance cameras.
“Items are confiscated to preserve the orderly working of the court and to ensure the safety of all personnel within the building.”
He said any item which in the opinion of the court security officer could be used as a weapon, cause a hazard to others in the building or be used to disrupt the court proceedings will be confiscated as the owner enters the building.
Email to a friend
Print this page
Looking for...
Featured advertisers
Jobs
Search for a job
Motors
Search for a car
Property
Search for a house
Weather for Crawley
Sunday 27 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 10 C to 26 C
Wind Speed: 12 mph
Wind direction: East
Tomorrow
Light showers
Temperature: 13 C to 25 C
Wind Speed: 9 mph
Wind direction: North west
