Worker threatens pub goer with large knife

A worker who carried a huge knife into a pub after a row on a works night out has been jailed.
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Sessions House

Paul Rowley, of The Crossroads, Freckleton Street, Preston, admitted a charge of affray following the alarming incident on August 8 last year in Freckleton.

Prosecuting, Craig MacGregor told Preston’s Sessions House Court that after becoming threatening and abusive in a public house in the village, Rowley had returned to the busy scene armed with a large blade.

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The dad-of-one then threatened victim Jacob Callaghan, whose father bravely stepped in to stop the incident escalating.

Sentencing the 32-year-old to nine months in prison, Recorder Long said: “People who produce knives in public places must realise they will inevitably be sent to prison.”

Defending Rowley, Claire Brocklebank said: “He suffered injuries during the offences, that’s the risk one takes. He had a black eye and swollen jaw.

She added at the time, he had not been taking his medication for mental health problems correctly, which may have “explained his state of mind.”

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The court heard his former manager had given him a glowing reference praising his work ethic, and that he had got another job since the incident.

Recorder Long said: “ On August 7 you went for a few drinks with friends from work.

“For some reason things turned sour and you became threatening and abusive.

“You left in a taxi but you were unable to resist.

“You armed yourself with a large knife and you returned to the scene.

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“Fortunately his father intervened and the episode came to an end.

“Whether you had taken drugs or whether it is a result of your psychological issues remains to be seen.

“However it cannot be said it was out of character.

“You have previous offences for affray, assault and possessing a knife."

But he accepted Rowley was “capable of living a productive life” after hearing various work references.

He added: “ It is hoped when this comes to an end you are able to return to a law abiding life.”