Darren Day on trial over martial arts weapon

STAGE and screen star Darren Day has gone on trial accused of carrying an offensive weapon designed by American police and nicknamed an "attitude adjuster".

Yesterday at Edinburgh Sheriff Court Day denied being in possession of a kubotan in a public place in Edinburgh without reasonable excuse or lawful authority in December last year.

Two martial arts experts from Lothian and Borders Police told Sheriff William Holligan the kubotan was designed in the 1970s for use by the Los Angeles Police.

The officers, Sgt Gary Russell and PC Liam Fitzpatrick said the kubotan was used as a close-quarter restraining instrument. Pc Fitzpatrick said in "the worst-case scenario it could kill somebody".

Questioned by defence solicitor, Bobby Frazer, the officers said no licence was required to buy a kubotan in this country and that under the Offensive Weapons Scotland Act of 2005 there was no mention of it in a list of offensive weapons.

Mr Frazer claimed that the kubotan, which his client had with him was a key ring.

The trial was adjourned until 7 April.