GARRY OVERTON FROM TELFORD BRANDISHES KNIFE IN COURT AFTER SENTENCE FOR INDECENT ASSAULT

In a disturbing incident at Shrewsbury Crown Court, Garry Overton, a 36-year-old soldier and Iraq veteran from Telford, caused alarm when he pulled out a plastic knife and pressed it to his throat shortly after being sentenced for serious criminal offenses. The courtroom was tense as the incident unfolded, raising concerns about security and the potential for further violence.

Overton, who resides on Whitebeam Close in Telford, had earlier pleaded guilty to two counts of indecent assault involving a teenage girl. The court was informed that he had engaged in inappropriate conduct, which included touching the girl over her clothing and kissing her, actions that took place in September of the previous year. His crimes had prompted a police investigation after the girl, then only 14 years old, contacted her aunt to report the incident.

During the sentencing hearing, Overton was handed a nine-month prison term. However, the situation took a dramatic turn when, as a prison officer attempted to place handcuffs on him, he unexpectedly produced a plastic knife. The weapon was held to his throat, causing immediate concern among court officials and attendees. Authorities have since launched inquiries to determine how Overton came into possession of the knife, given the strict security measures typically in place within court premises.

It was also revealed that Overton had served in Iraq as a member of the Territorial Army, which added a layer of complexity to the case. Following his conviction, he was placed on a three-year license upon release and is required to register as a sex offender for a period of ten years. The incident underscores ongoing issues related to security and the management of individuals with criminal backgrounds, especially those with military experience, within the judicial system.