A MAN who showed up at his ex-partner’s home with a hunting knife was sentenced by magistrates today (Tuesday, March 11).

Dwayne Howard, of Redworth Road, Shildon, tried to open his ex-partner’s door when he paid an unwelcome visit on December 2 last year but was prevented by a security chain.

Paula Sanderson, prosecuting at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates Court, said the victim had been warned that Howard, 26, would be coming over with a knife by a friend.

“She contacted the police as she believed he had a knife as that is what she had been told," said Ms Sanderson. 

"She then locked herself in the bathroom and waited for the police.”

Officers spotted Howard walking away from the victim’s house and a search revealed a hunting knife with a fixed six-inch blade tucked inside his jacket.

Howard pleaded guilty to possessing a knife in a public place at a previous court hearing.

No mitigation was given at the hearing today (Tuesday).

Howard was sentenced to a 12-month community order, including probation supervision and 40 hours unpaid work.

He was also ordered to pay £85 court costs and a £60 victim surcharge.