A ROBBER who threatened to put a gun to the head of a pregnant woman has been warned he could face jail.

Michael Conreen admitted threatening a worker in the Spar store, in West Street, Rochford, while stealing a bottle of cherry Lambrini.

Southend magistrates heard Conreen, of St Vincent’s Road, Westcliff, went into the store with Shane Green just before 11pm on June 7.

Green, of Kilworth Avenue, Southend, also appeared in the dock and admitted stealing a bottle of Lambrini.

Lesley Chipps, prosecuting, said: “Two of them were seen to select cherry Lambrini.

“Mr Conreen said to the female staff member, ‘if you say anything,I will put a gun to your head. If you say anything or move, Iwill cut your throat’.

“The complainant said she was shocked by the incident.

The threats were unnecessary, as she did nothing to challenge them and remained behind the till. She is currently four months pregnant.”

A third man, Wesley Green, 23, also of Kilworth Avenue, Southend, was also arrested and charged with stealing the bottle. The case against him has been adjourned until August 22.

Simon Samuels, defending, said: “Shane Green had too much to drink. At the moment he is on jobseeker’s allowance, but is actively seeking work.

“Mr Conreen is embarrassed about the upset he has caused this member of staff.

“He can’t believe he acted in that way.”

Magistrates adjourned the case until September 9, but the chairman of the bench, Nigel Smith, warned Conreen and Green, both 20, they could face a prison sentence.

He said: “Full reports will be prepared. This matter is so serious a custodial sentence must be considered.”