A 65-year-old Birmingham woman was found carrying multiple kitchen knives at the city’s German Christmas Market, subsequently telling police, “I’m going to murder someone,” a court heard.
Moira Tuke had two knives on her person and dropped a third at a pretzel stall during the first day of the Christmas market on 1 November last year. The incident unfolded just two days after her release on licence from prison.
Tuke, currently residing at HMP Foston Hall, reportedly armed herself with the knives in a desperate bid to be returned to prison rather than face homelessness. Her defence barrister, Charlie Denney, described her as “terrified of being homeless” and said her actions stemmed from trauma following the fatal stabbing of her brother.
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During the court proceedings, Prosecutor Sara Wythe explained that officers patrolling near Superdrug at the Christmas market were approached by Tuke, who admitted to carrying a knife and declared her intent to harm someone. Despite officers attempting to engage with her, she walked away with her hands in her pockets.
A stop and search uncovered two knives on her person, while a third large knife was found by other officers at the pretzel stall nearby. Tuke later admitted to dropping the knife there. She was arrested and provided no comment during her police interview.
Ms Wythe emphasised the potential risk posed by the weapons at a busy public event, stating, “There was a risk of serious disorder. The knife dropped could have been used.”
Tuke has a significant criminal history, including 33 prior convictions for 62 offences, some involving knife possession.
Defending, Mr Denney characterised the case as “desperately sad,” pointing out that Tuke’s motivation was fear of homelessness and a belief that prison was a safer environment than the community. He noted that if she felt secure and had suitable accommodation, she would not have the same inclination to commit offences.
The court was informed that community accommodation would be available the day following sentencing if a custodial sentence was suspended.
Despite this, Recorder Douglas-Jones sentenced Tuke to 22 months in prison, with eligibility for release after serving half the term.