Knife thugs face four years in jail during festive blitz

ANYONE caught carrying a knife in city centres over the festive period faces a possible four-year jail term as part of a crackdown announced today.

It follows a strengthening of prosecution policy which covers anyone found possessing a knife on licensed premises, public transport or when it is linked to local gang involvement.

Prosecutors say anyone caught as part of the latestcrackdown will be arrested and prosecuted before a sheriff and jury, resulting in the potential increase from a maximum prison term of one year to four years.

Scotland’s top law officer, Lord Advocate Frank Mulholland QC, said the six-week pilot will involve a “zero-tolerance” approach to the problem.

He said: “The public will wish to enjoy the festive period in our towns and cities without fear.”