A SOUTHAMPTON man has been cleared of attacking an emergency worker and possessing a knife in the New Forest. 

Deane Riddett was charged in July last year with possession of a bladed article in a public place, possession of an offensive weapon in a public place and common assault of an emergency worker.

It came as part of an investigation into what was described at the time as an attempted burglary behind properties on Foldsgate Close. 

The 52-year-old of Paynes Road, Southampton was arrested after a member of the public reported a man acting suspiciously in the early hours. 

But now he has been cleared of all charges after appearing at Southampton Crown Court earlier this year. 

A trial began on September 17 and was eventually concluded on January 2, 2022 with the jury coming to a not guilty verdict. 

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