Man Charged with Weapons at Manchester Mosque

On April 2nd, a 55-year-old man from Manchester, named Darren Conner, faces charges for carrying an axe, hammer, and knife into the central.

Mosque and Victoria Park?

This happened back on Tuesday, February 24th, and he's accused of having those weapons in a public spot, without any good reason.

Prosecutors also say he had zip ties and a balaclava on him during the incident.

Earlier, at Magistrate's Court, he admitted to possessing cannabis, but hasn't pleaded to the main weapons charge yet.

Conner showed up via video link from Liverpool Prison for his hearing at Manchester Crown Court on Thursday, April 2nd.

His lawyer confirmed he's maintaining a not guilty stance on the offensive weapons count.

The judge said a provisional trial for August 25th, and adjourned things until a prep hearing on May 15th.

No one asked for bail, so he's staying locked up.

This case highlights rising concerns around public safety, near places of worship, and will keep tracking how it unfolds from here.