A MAN appeared before magistrates yesterday (Jan 19) after admitting being in possession of an offensive weapon, a metal knuckleduster.

Ethan Conroy, aged 22, of Rossmore Road, Poole, was a passenger in a car which was pulled over in Poole on April 23 last year.

Poole Magistrates’ Court heard that after officers conducted a search of the car, the knuckleduster was found in Conroy’s tracksuit pocket.

Defending, James Moore said: "This is a young man with no previous convictions. He had been given the knuckle-duster and had no intention to use it.

“There is no suggestion of any dangerous circumstances."

Conroy was handed a six month conditional discharge and ordered to pay a £20 victim surcharge and £85 costs.