A thief, who threatened and tied up a boy during an aggravated burglary in Weston-super-Mare, has been jailed for 15 years today (Thursday).

Michael Ruff ‘traumatised’ a 15-year-old boy when he forced his way into a house in Milton, armed with a screwdriver.

He tied up the youngster before making off with jewellery.

Earlier that same day he had threatened a 46-year-old woman and stole her car in Montpelier.

Investigating officer DC Stephen Milkins said: “This was a fast-moving inquiry with a suspect quickly identified, arrested and charged.

“The victims in this case, which include a 15-year-old boy, have suffered extremely traumatic and frightening experiences which they’ll undoubtedly never forget.

“They were all greatly relieved when Ruff was initially arrested and charged, as they were able to start going about their daily lives again with the reassurance that a very dangerous man was in custody.”

Ruff’s crimes were carried out on August 25.

At about 7.30am, Ruff brandished a weapon and threatened the female driver before making off with her grey Audi A3.

Eight hours later he approached a house in Milton and when the boy answered the door he asked to speak to the child’s parents.

Ruff claimed there was something wrong with the home and, upon learning the parents were not in, got out a screwdriver and threatened the boy.

He ordered the 15-year-old to take off his socks so Ruff could use them to not leave fingerprints around the house.

Ruff tied the child up in an upstairs bedroom and then made off with jewellery.

He pleaded guilty to charges of robbery, aggravated burglary and other offences relating to possession of weapons.

He was sentenced to 15 years in jail, plus another five years on licence.

MORE: Weekly round-up of criminals from in and around Weston-super-Mare.

DC Milkins said: “Today’s sentence is hopefully further reassurance for them that this man will no longer be capable of committing such terrible acts to anyone else.

“I hope they can continue trying to put this horrific incident behind them and I’d like to thank them for the courage and support they’ve shown throughout this investigation.”