A Leatherman multi-tool has many uses. When Darren Matthias appeared in Magistrates’ Court on Monday, he claimed he had used his for self-defence.
Despite his explanation, Mr. Matthias, of Hodges Creek, pleaded guilty to being armed with an offensive weapon after taking part in a fight at Sol Gas Station in Road Town on July 6. According to prosecutors, he pulled out the knife blade of his Leatherman during the altercation.
“I was defending myself,” Mr. Matthias said. “I had to push the man off me three times.”
A second man appeared in the defendants’ dock on Monday in connection with the alleged altercation: Salehe Todman pleaded not guilty to obstructing a police officer who intervened.
After the allegations were read, Mr. Matthias said the fight had been mutual, and it left him with a cut on his knee and bruises on his face. He is scheduled to appear for sentencing on Sept. 25.
Mr. Todman was offered $5,000 bail with one surety and is scheduled to appear for trial on the same day.
See the Aug. 16, 2012 edition for full coverage.
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