A THUG who threatened police and street rangers at knifepoint after stealing from town centre shops has been jailed.

Tyrone Castello sat swearing and pointing at the judge during yesterday’s sentencing hearing at Basildon Crown Court.

The crook, described by Judge Andrew Hurst as having a “prolific” record, will now serve almost three years in jail.

The hearing heard how on October 5 last year he was chased from Marks and Spencer, in Southend, and then pulled a six-inch knife out and threatened two street rangers, who feared for their lives.

The court also heard how on April 16, police were called to reports of drug use around children at Quantock Flats, in Southend.

He resisted arrested, and pulled a 25cm knife on officers and was found with stolen hats in a bag, worth almost £100.

Kabir Sondhi, prosecuting, told the court Castello had a history of threatening people with knives and previous convictions for possessing knives.

Mr Sondhi also told the hearing how Castello has so far spent 163 days in custody since he was arrested.

Mitigating, Terry Pedro said: “He has seen an opportunity to deal with his drug issues and has reduced the amount he is taking.

“He is also working to address his mental health issues including depression and anxiety.

“He has also had time to think about his past and future and has a four-year-old son and does not want his son to follow in his father’s footsteps.”

Speaking to Castello, of North Road, Westcliff, Judge Hurst said: “You are 42-years-old and have a prolific record of offences involving knives and burglary.

“What is concerning to this court is you carry a knife and the default position is to pull out the knife on people.

“It seems to be a deeply entrenched habit and the real danger is someone will get very badly hurt. I will sentence you to two years and 11 months in total.”