jail after he was convicted yesterday of committing armed robbery.

Paul Ronald Williams, of East Shore Road, Sandys, pleaded guilty to charges that he robbed Arnold's Family Market on March 7 of this year.

In sentencing, the court heard how the 31-year-old Williams and an unknown accomplice entered the St. John's Road, Pembroke store while disguised and brandishing a machete.

The two threatened the cashier for money and made good their escape on a motorcycle with $1,675 in cash.

Williams was arrested by Police the following day, still wearing the same clothes. He admitted that he had committed the robbery, but refused to name his accomplice.

He claimed that he needed the money to support his long-time cocaine habit.

Williams' record includes various violent and drug-related incidents. In 1993, he was found guilty of unarmed robbery and received a seven-year prison term.

He told the court that he was sorry for his actions and that his being laid-off had caused problems.

"I'm at this court's mercy, and I'm asking you to give me a break,'' he said.

"I didn't give too much thought to this before I done it. I had no intention to use the machete. It was for intimidation purposes only.'' Puisne Judge Phillip Storr said he considered Williams' guilty plea as a mitigating factor, but that the defendant nevertheless needed to be punished.

"I believe you may have seen the light, but I have to create a balance between that and protecting the public,'' he said.