THE following cases were heard by South Durham magistrates, sitting at Darlington Magistrates’ Court, on Tuesday (June 4). All addresses are Darlington unless otherwise stated.

KNIFE OFFENCE: Dean Broder, of Pensbury Street, admitted possessing a one-inch craft knife in Salisbury Terrace on May 25. He was under the influence of alcohol at the time, said prosecutor Lynne Dalton. Stephen Andrews, for the 43-year-old, said there was no suggestion the knife had been brandished at any point. Broder was fined £165, with a £20 victim surcharge and £50 costs. The forfeiture and destruction of the knife was ordered.

CHARGE DENIED: John Taylor, 27, of Shakespeare Road, denied receiving stolen goods, namely a moped, to the value of £600. The case was adjourned until July 25 and Mr Taylor was released on unconditional bail.

CASE COMMITTED: Kelvin Murray, 32, of Meadow Lane, Northallerton, denied making a false representation to gain finance for a car purchase. He pleaded not guilty to a charge of fraud. The case was adjourned to June 18, at Teesside Crown Court and Mr Murray was released on unconditional bail.

PLEA ENTERED: Dean Thornton, 27, of Saxonfield, Coulby Newham, denied using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour. He is said to have got into an argument with a member of staff at Darlington railway station in March. The case was adjourned to August 15 and Mr Thornton was released on unconditional bail.