A convicted killer was back in the dock this week after he was caught carrying a knife.
Police officers’ attention was drawn to Kevin Dunn in a Wishaw street because he had his face covered and the logos on his clothing were hidden by duct tape.
Hamilton Sheriff Court heard he was trying to conceal his identity because he’s “sensitive” about his murder conviction.
Dunn, now 44, admitted unlawful possession of a knife in Shand Street, Wishaw, on February 16.
In 1997 he was just 17 when he was given a life sentence for the murder of another youth in Craigneuk.
In the latest case Aga Mathieson, prosecuting, said police officers on plain clothes patrol noticed Dunn shortly after 10pm.
She told the court: “Their attention was drawn to the accused who was wearing black clothing. HIs hood was up and his face was covered. They could only see his eyes.
“He had duct tape covering the logos on his clothing. When the officers identified themselves he appeared nervous and agitated.
“They asked why he had duct tape on his clothing and he said ‘To hide my identity from people. Everyone knows what I wear’.
“The officers searched him and recovered a kitchen knife from his pocket.”
Defence lawyer Matthew McGovern said Dunn had served 21 years for the murder, adding:
“He is, understandably, sensitive about his conviction which is why he was keen not to be identified.
“Before this incident he was at liberty for five years without coming to the attention of the police.”
Mr McGovern said Dunn had used the knife to open a box and had then left home to go to a chip shop.
The solicitor stated: “He had put the knife in his pocket and simply forgot about it.
“He is from a decent family who are supportive of him and it’s unfortunate he has found himself in this situation.”
Sheriff Linda Nicolson told Dunn: “Your previous conviction certainly makes this matter more serious.”
She jailed him for 18 months but backdated the sentence as Dunn had been held in custody since his arrest in February. That meant he was likely to be freed immediately under early release rules.
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