Shops in Lincolnshire caught selling knives to teens
An investigation found four out of nine shops sold them
Four shops in Lincolnshire have been caught selling knives to teenagers during a Trading Standards operation.
Nine shops in total were tested.
Volunteers aged fifteen and sixteen were able to buy knives from stores in Lincoln, Sleaford and Grantham.
The shopkeepers who failed to challenge the underage buyers have been given a written warning.
Trading Standards say they could face prosecution if it happens again.
Councillor Alex McGonigle from Lincolnshire County Council said: “Across Lincolnshire we’re committed to keeping our communities safe and protecting our young people from the dangers of knife crime.
“It was brilliant to visit The Happening at Sleaford Police Station and see first-hand the impact the centre has in making young people aware of the dangers and life-changing consequences of carrying knives.
“The Underage Sales Operations conducted by Lincolnshire Trading Standards are another of the tools in our armoury. By reminding shopkeepers of their legal responsibilities, we are helping to stop these dangerous items from falling into the hands of our young people.
“Our officers will not hesitate to pursue criminal prosecutions against those unscrupulous owners who continue to put profit ahead of our young people’s safety.”