Carlisle robbery victim had knife after threats and intimidation

The victim of a brutal robbery who armed himself with a knife in the face of continued threats and intimidation has been sentenced by a judge.

Carlisle Crown Court heard how Paul Savage was attacked inside his own city flat by thugs in February last year.

The 50-year-old suffered a broken jaw, was left bloodied and placed in an induced hospital coma following a violent 90-minute crime during which he was beaten with weapons and even his own crutch.

Savage supported police as they brought those responsible to justice, and gave evidence during a trial.

Earlier this week, a criminal gang received prison terms totalling around 35 years both for the robbery and committing heroin supply offences.

But Savage also found himself in the court dock today, Friday 2 February.

During a drugs search near his Lightfoot Drive home in Carlisle late on November 29, he admitted to police he was carrying a kitchen knife for his own protection.

He had previously been threatened in the street by criminals and warned against giving evidence in court.

Savage admitted a charge of having a bladed article, but insisted his intention was to scare people off and not use the weapon.

Having heard background information about the case, Judge James Adkin concluded it was an "exceptional case" and imposed a 12-month conditional discharge.

An order was made for forfeiture and destruction of the knife.