A THIEF ‘threatened to stab’ an off-duty police officer with a needle after being caught stealing a television from a Weston supermarket to feed his drug habit.

Alan Brindle punched the officer who caught him stealing from Tesco, after recognising him because the police were hunting him following three other thefts in as many weeks.

The 41-year-old avoided prison as magistrates felt admission to a drug recovery centre would be in his best interests and reduce the chances of him re-offending.

Sovereign Shopping Centre security guards caught Brindle and another man, cutting security tags off perfume and aftershave bottles at Wilkinson’s on November 4. Ten days later Brindle stole £60 worth of Katy Perry perfume from Weston’s B&M Bargains and on November 24 pinched two cosmetics bags from BHS.

Just 48 hours later he was seen by off-duty police officer Michael Jacobs stealing a £150 Toshiba television from Tesco.

Brindle, of Coleridge Road in Weston, refused to stop, punched the officer in the arm and continued walking away.

Jane Cooper, prosecuting, said Brindle threatened to stab PC Jacobs.

Knowing Avon and Somerset Constabulary were looking for Brindle, PC Jacobs called for back-up and the 41-year-old was arrested and charged.

Mrs Cooper added: “He (Brindle) had a severe drug habit of crack cocaine and heroine. He planned to sell (the goods) and buy drugs.”

Sue Cameron, defending, said Brindle relapsed after leaving prison in May but was desperate for help to kick the habit.

She said drugs had made him very ill and he suffered blood clots, which may prove fatal if he keeps using.

However Mrs Cameron said Brindle threatened to stab himself with a needle, rather than the police officer.

Brindle admitted three counts of theft, one of assaulting a constable and one of possessing a knife when stealing from Wilkinson’s.

He was sentenced to 16 weeks in prison, suspended for two years. He must attend a drug rehabilitation course and pay £80 victim surcharge.