Salisbury Man Guilty of Knifing Cop During Probation Meeting
Mark Parker, 24, from Cherry Close, Salisbury, pleaded guilty to assaulting an emergency worker and carrying a knife in public at Salisbury Magistrates Court yesterday.
Knife Threat at Probation Office
On Wednesday 24 February, Parker showed up at a probation meeting in Salisbury city centre with a knife. When asked about it, he revealed the pointed tip before trying to walk out with the weapon.
Violent Outburst and Arrest
Police tried to stop Parker from leaving with the knife. In response, he punched an officer in the torso. The officer arrested Parker for assault and then found the knife in his bag, leading to an additional charge for weapon possession.
Police Praise Courage Amid Ongoing Risks
“I would like to praise the actions of both police and probation staff in taking decisive action to ensure that Mark Parker was unable to pose a risk to the public,” said Inspector Guy Williams.
“Engagement with offenders hasn’t stopped during the pandemic. Staff from multiple agencies work daily to divert criminals and protect those in need. They often put themselves in harm’s way. Assaults on any staff member will never be tolerated.”