Probation for Derry man found walking with knife for "personal protection"
Published 6th Mar 2026, 15:33 GMT
Shay McConway (22) of Academy Road in Derry was charged after police received a report of a man walking in Faustina Terrace while carrying a large knife
A man has appeared at Derry Magistrate's Court charged with possession of an offensive weapon in a public place.
Shay McConway (22) of Academy Road in Derry was charged after police received a report of a man walking in Faustina Terrace while carrying a large knife.
Police identified and located McConway and instructed him to keep his hands where they could see them.
He proceeded to drop the knife to the ground and said that he had it for his own personal protection.
Defence Barrister Stephen Chapman said that McConway had the knife following a previous attack against him.
He added that McConway has a drug problem that he is currently seeking help with.
Deputy District Judge Liam McStay gave him a twelve month probation order.