A POWYS woman who was carrying a knife for protection around Landrindod Wells has been handed a suspended prison sentence.

Bethan Laura Mary Hobbs, who was already the subject of a court order when the offence occurred in early September, was given a four-month custodial sentence by Llandrindod Wells Magistrates’ Court.

The 35-year-old’s jail term will be suspended for a year and was handed down because a community-based punishment is not deemed suitable due to her “chaotic lifestyle”.

Hobbs, of Temple Drive, Llandrindod, admitted being in possession of a lock knife at court on Wednesday, September 27. She also admitted to being in possession of 5.6 grams of amphetamine in the spa town on September 1.

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Prosecutor Justin Espie said police officers found Hobbs in the Oakridge Court area of town at around 9pm following calls about an intoxicated female.

“They located her, they were concerned for her welfare,” said Mr Espie.

“She was on the ground, surrounded by her belongings. The defendant handed officers a lock knife, taken from her ruck sack, and a white powder. It was a small amount, consistent with personal use.”

Mr Espie said Hobbs had no previous offences for possessing a weapon.

Matthew Ridler, acting for Hobbs, said his client had been “very stupid”.

“She admitted both offences. She was very candid with officers,” said Mr Ridler, who revealed the drugs were worth between £30-40.

“The blade will cause you concern. She says she was under threat from a male known to her. She was afraid to go out of her address. She took the knife for her own protection.

“The male was arrested on the same day for an unrelated offence.

“She is currently on a community order which expires in the next month, and I understand she has made very good progress on that order. The suggestion is for a further order so she can get further input from the probation service.”

Probation officer Donna Davies said: “The unpaid work element of the order was removed in April due to her chaotic lifestyle.

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“She completed the alcohol abstinence monitoring requirement and there have been no breaches."

She added: “She has been homeless for a number of months and is sofa surfing. She is unsuitable for a curfew or unpaid work.”

In sentencing Hobbs to a prison sentence of four months, suspended for 12 months, magistrates told her she would have to complete 20 rehabilitation activity requirement days.

She will also pay £85 costs and a £154 surcharge. They ordered that the drugs be destroyed.