A DRUG-addicted father-of-three who threatened his estranged wife and took family possessions to sell for heroin has five months to prove he is reformed.

Abuzahan Jalil, 31, who has been in custody for four months was given his freedom by a judge and another chance by his wife.

Jalil's wife, who was twice the victim of knife threats from him, in front of her children, told Burnley Crown Court she was prepared to have another go at their marriage for the sake of the children.

Judge Raymond Bennett Jalil, of Cromwell Street, Burnley, had earlier admitted harassment.

Mark Lamberty, prosecuting, told the court the defendant, who married in 1994, turned up at the matrimonial home in the early hours in June 2000. The couple had been separated for about six weeks after Jalil's wife took exception to him spending money on heroin.

He demanded cash and removed the rental TV and video player. When his wife protested, he said she could have them back if he gave her £60 which he owed for drugs.

Jalil threatened his wife with a knife, said he would cut her hand off but was disarmed by his father.

Mr Lamberty said two years later in August this year, the defendant turned up again and again produced a knife. His wife phoned the police and officers found Jalil hiding in a cupboard.