Blackburn Magistrates Court. A WOMAN who brandished a knife during a neighbour dispute has escaped a jail sentence after taking the chance given to her by the courts. Blackburn magistrates heard sentence had been deferred when Michaela Louise Ferren pleaded guilty to possessing a knife in public, and criminal damage. And Deputy District Judge Stuart Boyd said he was pleased she had grasped the opportunity offered. You have engaged with the mental health services and there have been no further incidents since August, which is what was asked of you, said Deputy District Judge Boyd. You should be aware that if you come before the courts for a second knife offence the starting point is a mandatory six-month prison sentence.