AN ISLE of Wight man unsheathed a samurai sword while resisting arrest, causing attending officers to barricade his bedroom door and await the arrival of armed police.
Ben Hayman, of Arctic Road, Cowes, appeared before Isle of Wight magistrates on Tuesday, September 10.
The 45-year-old admitted possession of an offensive weapon in a private place, namely a curved sword, and resisting a constable in the execution of their duty.
Prosecutor, Lauren Stone, said police were initially called to Hayman’s address following a domestic assault report – one which did not result in a charge.
She said Hayman was located in a bedroom, together with his partner, and during his arrest, he refused to leave the room.
Ms Stone said police were concerned about needles lying around and reticent to enter the bedroom.
She said Hayman refused to cooperate and went on to grab a samurai sword leant against a wall, unsheathing it.
Police barricaded the door and awaited the arrival of armed police officers, at which point Hayman surrendered and was arrested.
Nick Muir, defending, said Hayman was apologetic and struggling with his mental health on the day.
He said his medication levels were all over the place.
The court heard the sword was old, had been in Hayman’s possession for around 20 years, and it had not been an offence to possess it until recently.
Hayman saw his case adjourned to November 29 so a pre-sentence report could be drawn up.
He was granted unconditional bail until that date.
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