A man has been sentenced to 20 months in prison for making threats to burn down his friend’s house with his family inside. James Knight, aged 35, was found by police “wandering the streets angry, drunk, and drugged-up” and carrying a machete in Skewen, Neath.
Knight had known the victim for some time, and their friendship had its ups and downs. The offences occurred on September 4 when an intoxicated Knight threatened to kill a man named Craig Richardson over the phone. Following this, Knight left threatening messages on Richardson’s phone, including intentions to burn down his house with his partner and children inside.
During his appearance at Swansea Crown Court, Knight pleaded guilty to making threats to kill, making threats to damage property, possession of a bladed article, and possession of cannabis. His advocate stated that the threats were made when the relationship between Knight and the victim was strained, and Knight had no intention of carrying them out.
Judge Paul Hobson described Knight’s actions as disturbing, emphasizing the seriousness of threatening to harm someone’s family. Knight received a 20-month prison sentence, with a possibility of serving half the sentence in custody and the remainder in the community.
Knight has a history of convictions, including possession of bladed articles, violence offences, public disorder, affray, and drug trafficking. His previous conviction in July 2023 resulted in a 17-week prison sentence for assaulting an emergency worker.
This incident serves as a reminder of the consequences of making serious threats, especially when they involve harming others. It is essential to handle conflicts and disagreements with respect and peaceful resolutions to prevent harm and legal repercussions.