Knife-wielding teen slashed the tyres of social worker's car

Victim was confronted while speaking to child in street

- Sentinel Reporter

A TEENAGE troublemaker has avoided jail after slashing a social worker's tyres.

Mackenzie Buckingham confronted his victim who was speaking with a child in a residential street.

North Staffordshire Justice Centre heard the 19-year-old appeared in a balaclava and started to stare at them as he became increasingly 'menacing' and 'confrontational.

He then shouted 'What the f*** you looking at?' and started wafting a kitchen knife and pacing around cars in the street.

He was recognised by the child who confirmed his identity to the social worker and the pair headed inside to safety and called the police.

Buckingham then slashed the social worker's car tyres which cost around £400.