A knife surrender to help keep Cumbria’s streets safe will be launched by Cumbria police.
The week-long surrender begins today, November 14, and is a national operation by police forces.
It is the second amnesty this year – the first, in May, saw 80 blades surrendered to police stations across the county.
Chief Inspector Gill Cherry said: “Any incident that escalates to the point where a knife is pulled has the potential to end in tragedy – often for the person in possession of the blade.
“Our officers regularly see the terrible outcomes which can result in someone carrying a knife as they walk the streets.
“Cumbria is one of the safest places in the country to live, work and visit and we wish to keep it that way.
“Every knife or blade that is handed in is one less weapon which could fall into the wrong hands.”
Someone found in possession of a knife could face a fine of £5,000 and a four-year prison sentence.
Chief Inspector Cherry added: “This is the ideal time for someone who is in possession of a knife or bladed article they know they should not have, or perhaps someone who has come across an old knife in the loft, to safely and securely take it out of circulation.
“It is a quick process and your action will help make your community a safer place.”
During the week, officers will be going into schools in the county to educate young people on the dangers of knife possession – both to themselves and others.
Police and Crime Commissioner Peter McCall said: “Being in possession of a weapon means that it is more likely to be used – it is not worth the risk.
“No one wants to be involved in an incident involving a knife, as it can have a serious effect on people’s lives and, in the worst-case scenario, could be fatal.
“I would urge anyone who has a potentially dangerous weapon in their home to surrender it to your local police station.
“Let’s work together to make Cumbria an even safer place to live.”
Anyone wishing to hand a knife or bladed article in should put them in a box or strong bag. Never attempt to take an uncovered knife or bladed article out in public.
People are advised to go directly to a designated station when handing in such items.
Knives and bladed articles can be handed in at the following stations:
- Barrow
- Carlisle
- Kendal
- Whitehaven
- Workington
