A MAN has been jailed after he attempted to rob a mother and her partner, while her five children were at home.

Bradley Carney, 22, appeared at Teesside Crown Court yesterday for sentencing.

Carney, of Larkspur Road, Marton, Middlesbrough, was sentenced for attempted robbery and possessing two offensive weapons.

On May 24 he and another man entered the family’s home in Hemlington armed with a bread knife, a white wooden pole and a black sock which was thought to be filled with coins.

Carney also had a broken bottle or glass.

Judge Jonathan Carroll said: “The victim of this case was a mum, her partner and her five children who were aged between 14 and one-years of age.

“On the 24th of May of this year, you and another male individual forced your way without warning or notice into their home. They were minding their own business, going about their lawful business in their home where they should be and should feel safe and secure.

“I want to make it clear, whatever the motivation was, they were doing nothing wrong.

“The other male had a knife, you had a pole and a broken glass bottle. You were both wearing clothing to disguise yourself to minimise the opportunity of being identified.

“You demanded money and supported these demands with the threats of the use of weapons. The knife being held directly towards the victim [the mum and her partner].

“You ultimately used the bottle against the victim as she set to restrain you.”

The judge also said the motivation for the crimes were drugs and in order to afford Carney’s drug habit, in the belief that there was money to have in the house.

Judge Carroll added: “It became clear that you had got the wrong house – they were ultimately entirely innocent victims of your mistake.

“There were five children in this house – a significant aggravating factor.

“Your other offences are relatively light.

“I have read the letter from your mother and my heart goes out to her and the profession she is in and the work she does.”

Carney was sentenced to four years and eight months imprisonment.

Carney must serve at least half of the sentence before he can be released.

The weapons were ordered to be forfeited and destroyed.

A victim surcharge was also ordered to be paid.