A “dangerous” 24-year-old man has been jailed after arming himself with a kitchen knife at a Forest Hill hostel to rob other residents.

Scott Jestico held a knife against a 39-year-old man’s throat to gain his truck keys and threatened to stab another victim after sneaking into their rooms to thieve.

Jestico, of no fixed address, was sentenced at the Old Bailey to eight years in prison for robbery, after being found guilty on January 6.

The court heard how Jestico was staying at a hostel in Forest Hill on July 15 last year when he entered two other residents’ rooms at around 5am.

Armed with a large knife, he told a 43-year-old man he would stab him if he did not hand over his laptop, before holding a second victim at knifepoint to gain his keys and mobile phone.

He then walked out of the hostel and stole the truck.

News Shopper: Scott Jestico caught on CCTV

CCTV showed Jestico entering both rooms and he was eventually caught after police spotted the truck in Chestnut Close, Catford, on July 21.

The vehicle did not stop for police and the passengers fled and were found in nearby Southend Lane, where Jestico was arrested.

Detective Constable Louise Mayhook, of Lewisham’s serious acquisitive crime unit, said: "This incident was terrifying for the victims involved who believed at the time they would lose their lives.

“Jestico showed a complete disregard for his victims and believed it was his right to take their belongings at whatever cost.

“He is a dangerous individual and I am pleased that this was recognised in court and he was given a substantial custodial sentence which befits the crimes he committed."

No further action was taken against the other suspects found with Jestico.