Which element is essential to convict someone of possessing a bladed article in a public place?

Which element is essential to convict someone of possessing a bladed article in a public place?

• A. Ownership of the article.
• B. Having the article in a public place.
• C. The article being designed as a weapon.
• D. Having the article with him in a public place.

Answer: (D)

The essential point is possession in a public place. To convict, it must be shown that the person has a bladed article with him in a public place — in other words, the blade is in his possession or under his immediate control at the time and place of the offense. Ownership alone isn’t enough, and simply having a blade somewhere in public isn’t enough unless it’s with him. The blade doesn’t have to be designed as a weapon for the offence to apply; everyday blades count as long as they are with him in public. So the crucial element is having the article with him in a public place, i.e., the blade on or under his direct control while in public.

The essential point is possession in a public place. To convict, it must be shown that the person has a bladed article with him in a public place — in other words, the blade is in his possession or under his immediate control at the time and place of the offense. Ownership alone isn’t enough, and simply having a blade somewhere in public isn’t enough unless it’s with him. The blade doesn’t have to be designed as a weapon for the offence to apply; everyday blades count as long as they are with him in public. So the crucial element is having the article with him in a public place, i.e., the blade on or under his direct control while in public.