PARENTS have been called on to "step up to the mark" in preventing knife crime among young people.
Last week the Leader reported on a "truly shocking" case in which a 14-year-old boy stabbed another teenager in the chest with an eight-inch kitchen knife.
The attack, which happened in Bagillt High Street last year, caused the victim's lung to collapse.
Judge Niclas Parry said the defendant, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was very lucky not to have killed his victim.
Flintshire North Inspector Stephen Roberts recalled handling the case, and issued a plea in the strongest terms to parents and children across his district about weapons.
He said: "It's clear that if the youth didn't have possession of the knife, he wouldn't have done this.
"Carrying knives in public is unacceptable, whatever the rationale you may believe you have.
"Generally one reason people give is that it's for their protection. But that's not acceptable. There's no excuse, it ruins lives.
"There but for the grace of God this lad wasn't killed - and we are talking about kids here.
READ MORE: Teenager sentenced for knife attack in Bagillt
"These kids need adult direction, parental guidance.
"I would urge all parents to step up to the mark and do what they can to prevent kids from carrying knives.
"We will seek the maximum sentence in every case."
Insp Roberts also advised residents to get rid of any dangerous items they may have in their homes, adding: "You are not allowed to possess offensive weapons - knuckle dusters, swords, knives - even if it's in your own house.
"You can't overestimate knife crime and the disastrous effect it has on everyone, not just the victim.
"[Having a knife] changes the dynamics of an altercation in an instant.
"What was potentially two adolescents pushing each other changes completely."
Speaking to youths who may have considered carrying a weapon, he added: "If you're found in the street in possession of a knife, I as the District Inspector will do everything I can to push for a prosecution that will stay on your record.
"That will affect your attractiveness to employers in the future, and further education.
"There's no excuse to carry a knife. They utterly ruin lives."
READ MORE: Deeside teenager arrested in connection with carrying knives
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