Knife-Wielding Teen Terrorises Skateboarders in Liverpool
A 19-year-old from Liverpool has been locked up after threatening two young skateboarders with a kitchen knife in a terrifying late-night attack.
Knife Attack in Old Swan Car Park
Steven Bennett, from Croxteth, targeted the pair – both 21 – in a supermarket car park in Old Swan on 23 June 2020. As the skateboarders made their way home around 11:15 pm, Bennett shouted abuse from a friend’s flat window on Killarney Road before charging at them with a kitchen knife.
He screamed and waved the blade menacingly, slashing the air close to the victims. Luckily, they dodged the attacks and escaped serious injury.
Victims Fear for Their Lives
Both skateboarders later described their terror in victim statements, saying they genuinely feared for their lives. They reported the incident to police, who arrested Bennett the following day at the flat.
Swift Justice for Shocking Attack
Bennett pleaded guilty to two counts of threatening with an offensive weapon. On 20 August 2020, Liverpool Crown Court sentenced him to 18 months in a Young Offenders Institute.
District Crown Prosecutor Victoria Colvin said: “This attack has left these two young men traumatised and understandably fearful of going out. The motive for Bennett’s attack is unfathomable. Carrying a knife in public is a serious offence.”
“What’s worse, Bennett repeatedly threatened the victims with the knife. The Crown Prosecution Service ensured the victims wouldn’t have to face him in court, applying for Special Measures.”
“Thankfully, Bennett pleaded guilty, allowing a quick resolution despite COVID-19 restrictions.”
