A serial thug who bragged to police he was "untouchable" has made legal history by being banned from his estate in the country's first anti-social behaviour order made during criminal proceedings.

David Warrener, 20, was arrested 51 times and ran up 46 convictions plaguing residents of the Thorney Close estate in Sunderland.

When Warrener was arrested for his latest crime he boasted to police: "You lot can't do anything to hurt me. You can't touch me."

Warrener first came to the attention of police in November 1995 when he was just 12 when he was arrested for shoplifting.

During an eight year reign of terror his catalogue of crimes included burglary, assault, arson, theft, stealing cars, criminal damage, breach of the peace, carrying offensive weapons, and possession of drugs.

Warrener was remanded in custody in November when he threw a lit firework into a packed store - although fortunately no-one was injured.

Warrener has been jailed for 13 months, but when he is released the order kicks in - banning him from setting foot in parts of Thorney Close for three years.

He is banned from drinking in the street, from congregating in gangs and from inciting others to commit crimes.

Failure to comply will result in him being jailed for a further five years.

Sergeant Mick Wright said: "Imprisonment has failed to curb Warrener's prolific anti-social behaviour. The conditions of this Asbo effectively cover all traits of his offending.

"It is good news for the community he has plagued for years."

Sgt Tait's six-man police team spent six months building up a "comprehensive and detailed" picture of Warreners criminal career, to present to court.

Previously police could only apply to slap Asbos on persistent offenders through the civil courts - a process that could take up to two years to complete.

But new powers under the Police Reform Act mean force chiefs can now apply for the orders during criminal court proceedings.

Warrener was yesterday beginning 13 months in jail after admitting hurling a lit firework into a packed Singh's store.

He was sentenced at Newcastle Crown Court on Tuesday after pleading guilty to affray, shoplifting, and breaching a conditional discharge.

Since he was remanded in custody for his latest crimes, police say reports of disorder in the area have plummeted.

Beat manager Pc Mark Reynolds added: "When we arrested Warrener for his last crime he told us we couldn't do anything to hurt him.

"He thought he was untouchable. I'm sure this court ruling has now convinced him otherwise."