A teenager has been jailed for nearly four years after pointing a knife at supermarket staff when they challenged him for stealing a handful of snacks.
Dalton Angus, of Spennymoor, was sentenced to 46 months in a Young Offenders Institute after admitting robbery, having a bladed or sharply pointed article in a public place and two counts of theft.
The offences took place at Aldi, in Spennymoor, on November 5 last year.
The 18-year-old entered the store and took some sandwiches and pasta pots from the snack counter before heading to the exit.
Staff had spotted what he had done and when challenged him, he pulled a Stanley knife out of his pocket; however, they were able to grab it before he ran off.
He also made threats to staff that he was carrying a baton, although this was not seen.
Angus, who was known to police, was caught following an investigation by detectives and neighbourhood officers.
Acting Detective Sergeant Michael Hogg, of Durham Constabulary, said: “This was a terrifying incident for the staff, and it was incredibly brave of them to challenge Dalton.
“Hopefully this sentence will give him time to think about his actions and be ready to change his ways on his release.”
