A MAN has been jailed after robbing a student at the wheel of his car while armed with a screwdriver.

Bryan Devonport climbed into the passenger seat of the victim’s car on the evening of May 9 last year and demanded that the 18-year-old gave him a lift.

When the victim refused, Devonport, 34, menacingly held a screwdriver to his chest, leaving the teenager fearing for his life.

The prolific criminal then robbed the teenager, ordering him to hand over £30 from his wallet, as well as pocketing a phone charger.

Devonport, of Barrowdale Street, Hetton-le-Hole, denied robbery but was found guilty following a trial at Newcastle Crown Court in February.

In a statement read out in court, the victim said: “As a result of this incident, I am very shaken. I genuinely believe that if I had not complied with the male he would have stabbed me with the screwdriver.

“I believe that he would have seriously hurt me. It is early to say but I believe this incident will stay with me for the rest of my life.”

Devonport has now been jailed for five years, with a two-year extended licence period.

Detective Constable Dave Vincent, of Northumbria Police, said: “On the night in question, he entered the victim’s car uninvited and demanded that he was driven to where he wanted.

“When the teenager understandably refused, Devonport pulled out a screwdriver, leaving the 18-year-old fearful that he was about to be stabbed. He even had the audacity to rob his victim. “Bryan Devonport is a dangerous criminal who has been a drain on police resources for some time now.

“He has caused endless problems and has brought misery to the communities of Wearside. His conviction is testament to the work of a team of detectives who worked tirelessly to bring him to justice.”