A SERIAL criminal is facing a lengthy prison sentence after a judge called for reports to examine whether he is a danger to the public.

William Abel, from Darlington, admitted trying to snatch a handbag from a woman in April when he appeared at Teesside Crown Court.

The 45-year-old had been released from an indeterminate sentence three years ago for an almost identical street mugging, the court was told during Friday’s hearing.

He had served six years behind bars for that offence, and has four convictions for robbery on his lengthy record.

Abel, of Chandos Street, Darlington, will be sentenced next month after background reports have been prepared by an official from the Probation Service.

He appeared in court via a live video-link from Holme House Prison in Stockton, where he has been since his arrest.

He was further remanded into custody by Judge Simon Bourne-Arton, QC, after defence lawyer, Graham Silverster said: “Your Lordship may want to address dangerousness.”