POLICE have praised members of the public after a swift response led to a knife-related suspect being arrested, charged and jailed following an incident in Saltash.

Devon and Cornwall Police received reports of a man in possession of a knife on Fore Street on Monday, March 30 at around 5pm.

Officers from the Neighbourhood Team, A Section Patrol and the Professional Development Unit were deployed immediately to the scene.

Officers spoke to a group of young people who had contacted police and provided a detailed account of what had taken place.

The youths reported that one of them had been assaulted by an unknown male, who also allegedly brandished a knife during the incident.

The group were described as “very helpful” in assisting officers, providing a clear description of the suspect.

Members of the public also helped direct police towards the direction in which the male had left the area, aiding the response.

A short time later, officers located the suspect. He was detained, searched and subsequently arrested on suspicion of assaulting a juvenile and possession of a bladed article in a public place.

The suspect was interviewed the next day by C section patrol officers following further investigation.

The case was then reviewed, and he was formally charged and remanded to appear at Truro Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, April 1.

The defendant was found guilty at court. He was sentenced to 10 weeks imprisonment for the assault on the juvenile and was ordered to pay compensation.

Police have thanked all those who assisted in the incident, highlighting the importance of community support in achieving a “quick and prompt outcome”.

Officers also issued a reminder to the public, urging anyone who witnesses suspicious or dangerous behaviour to report it. Non-emergency concerns should be reported via 101, while emergencies or incidents requiring immediate response should be reported by calling 999.