Homeless Roofer Given Suspended Sentence After Drugs and Knives Found in Whitehaven

A homeless man who told police he carried tools with him because he had nowhere to store them has been sentenced after being found in possession of drugs and knives in Whitehaven.
Nicholas Hufton, 45, was stopped by police on October 7 after officers received reports of a man riding a bicycle who appeared to be heavily under the influence. The incident took place in Whitehaven, where concerns were raised by members of the public about his condition.
Prosecutor Pamela Fee told Workington Magistrates’ Court that when officers arrived, Hufton’s behaviour prompted a search under the Misuse of Drugs Act. During the search, police discovered cannabis, Pregabalin, and two bladed items — a Stanley knife and a lock knife.
Hufton admitted possession of the drugs and told officers he worked as an “unofficial roofer”. He explained that due to being homeless, he had to carry his work tools with him at all times.
Appearing in court without legal representation, Hufton, of School House, Calderbridge, pleaded guilty to possession of a Class B drug, possession of a Class C drug, and possessing a bladed article in a public place.
Addressing the court, he said:
“I would just like to apologise. I realise what a piece of **** I have been for the last few weeks due to drugs. It was a stupid mistake. I’m sorry.”
He also told magistrates that he was no longer struggling with drug use.
Magistrates imposed a six-month custodial sentence, suspended for 12 months. Hufton was ordered to complete 15 days of rehabilitation activity along with a three-month drug rehabilitation requirement.
In addition, he must pay £85 in costs and a £154 victim surcharge. The court also made a deprivation order, meaning the knives will be destroyed.