GERALD MILLS FROM BOURNEMOUTH SENTENCED AFTER CARRYING KNIFE CLAIMING SELF-DEFENSE

In a recent court hearing held at Bournemouth Crown Court, Gerald Leslie Mills, a 71-year-old resident of Wallisdown Road in Bournemouth, faced sentencing after being found in possession of an offensive weapon. The incident occurred in Weymouth, where police officers observed Mills sitting on a bench. During the encounter, officers discovered that Mills was carrying a 6.5-centimeter lock knife, which he claimed was intended for his personal protection.

Prior to this, West Dorset police had also identified Mills with a toy gun in his bag. When questioned, Mills admitted to possessing the knife, asserting that it was for his own safety because he considered himself a paedophile. His statement was explicit, as he told the officers, “The knife is for my own protection as I am a paedophile.”

Mills, who has a history of being listed as a registered sex offender and has been publicly identified in publications such as the Daily Echo and the News of the World, pleaded guilty to the charge of possessing an offensive weapon in April of the same year. His appearance before Judge John Beashel came after a six-month adjournment, during which he was subject to a probation order. This probation was imposed due to previous breaches of a sex offender order, and during the adjournment period, authorities closely monitored his activities.

During the hearing, Judge Beashel emphasized that it was in the public interest for Mills to be dealt with within the community rather than through custodial measures. The judge noted that Mills had complied with the law during the period of supervision. The court also reviewed Mills’ earlier claims, made at a hearing in Dorchester Crown Court, where he expressed genuine fear for his safety. He had reported being worried about a person dressed in motorcycle clothing whom he believed was following him, which he cited as a reason for carrying the knife.

Ultimately, the court decided on a community rehabilitation order for Mills, balancing his personal fears with the need for public safety and legal compliance. The case highlights ongoing concerns about individuals with a history of sex offenses and their interactions with law enforcement and the judicial system.