A YOUNG man has been jailed after he threatened to burn down his mum's house when she refused to buy him cigarettes. 

Liam Miller previously pleaded guilty at Dumbarton Sheriff Court to behaving in a threatening and abusive manner when he damaged household items and uttered threats on May 18 this year.

He also admitted to breaking his bail conditions on two occasions this year to remain in his former home address from 7pm to 7am.

The first time the 20-year-old broke it was on May 7 when he was caught on McCreery Street and the second time was on July 3 on Overtoun Road, both in Clydebank.

At court fiscal depute Decla O'Connor said that it was around 5am when Miller returned to his mum's address in Whitecrook.

The 20-year-old started to demand cigarettes but quickly became abusive towards her when she refused. 

He began shouting, swearing and smashed a picture frame within the home.

It was then that he threatened to burn down her house.

During his sentencing on August 22 his defence solicitor Judith Reid said: "He accepts that he will receive [prison] sentences in terms of these matters. The pleas were tendered at early stages. I ask that you take into account his young age.

"I think some progress has been made whilst in custody. He accepted that he is not going anywhere in a hurry. He seems to be using the appropriate services within the prison and it is hoped that will be continued.

"He is very isolated and he hopes when he is released whenever that is he will come out to a clean slate. He knows the choices he will then have and the changes he needs to make.

"I simply ask that you draw these matters to an end."

Sheriff Clair McLachlan said: "Given your particular circumstances and a community-based disposal not being an option, I am afraid I do not have any option but to sentence you to a custodial sentence."

Miller was sentenced to 140 days in prison.