Armed Police Called to “Sleepy” Snooker Hall After Man Arrested for Carrying Lock Knife

Armed police were called to a “sleepy” snooker hall in Caerphilly after a woman reported her father for carrying a four-inch lock knife. The incident unfolded at Trecenydd Snooker and Sports Club on April 9, leading to the dramatic arrest of 64-year-old Kelvin Madley.

According to Madley’s solicitor, Ed Mitchard, the situation arose when Madley innocently showed his daughter the knife he had purchased along with some silver jewelry and a Pink Floyd CD. Unaware of the seriousness of carrying a lock knife in public, Madley’s daughter panicked and contacted the authorities as he headed to the snooker club.

Prosecutor Mike Williams emphasized that there was no lawful excuse for Madley to possess the knife in a public place, despite his claim of intending to sell it on after purchasing it from an unknown individual. Madley, who admitted to the offense, has a history of health issues and past convictions, including a 2010 shoplifting charge.

In court, Presiding Justice Nicholas Hobbs opted to impose a financial penalty on Madley, considering his age and lack of substance abuse issues. Madley was fined £200, with additional costs and a victim services surcharge.

The unusual incident at the snooker hall left onlookers surprised as armed police intervened in the tranquil setting. The case serves as a reminder of the legal restrictions surrounding the possession of certain types of knives in public places.