A man armed with a samurai sword in Milton Keynes was fended off by a builder using only a spirit level. Aaron Messenbird, 32, was caught on camera swinging the weapon and threatening members of the public on July 30.
Incident details
Messenbird approached a small group of people by a van, made threats, and 'raised the weapon in a threatening manner', police said. One member of the public tried to wrestle the blade away to protect friends but suffered serious injuries to his hands, including a damaged tendon and a rib injury.
Two other men then ran at Messenbird, one holding a spirit level, forcing him to flee. Shortly after, he was seen walking along Silbury Boulevard still carrying the sword.
Arrest and sentencing
Messenbird was arrested on August 5 and charged the following day. He was sentenced to 12 months' imprisonment at Aylesbury Crown Court.
Investigating officer PC Jordan Buchanan-Kay said: 'This was a violent and unprovoked incident in which Messenbird threatened members of the public with a potentially lethal weapon before assaulting a man who had stepped in to protect others.'
Police response
PC Buchanan-Kay acknowledged the bravery of the public who intervened, stating their actions 'undoubtedly contributed to protecting others from harm'. He urged people not to put themselves in danger, advising to move to a place of safety and call 999 immediately.
He added: 'I am pleased that Messenbird has been given a custodial sentence and hope this outcome provides reassurance to the victims and the wider community that violent offending involving weapons will not be tolerated.'
