A man who targeted a vulnerable pensioner in Dartford has been sentenced to 16 months in prison.
On May 3, 2024, Sujeepan Mangaleswaren approached a woman in her 80s as she sat on a bench waiting for a bus in Home Gardens. Mangaleswaren attempted to steal her handbag, using enough force to pull the elderly victim to her feet.
A struggle ensued, resulting in the handle of the bag breaking. Mangaleswaren then fled the scene, but quick-thinking members of the public tackled him and surrounded him until police arrived.
Mangaleswaren, who has no fixed address, was detained by officers and later charged with attempted robbery. He pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court and was sentenced on Thursday, July 25.
Investigating officer, PC Thea Mazur, commented on the case: “This man targeted a vulnerable pensioner thinking he could swiftly make off with the contents of her handbag. He did not bargain for the response from the plucky victim who refused to release her property, or the public-spirited intervention from local people who had seen his appalling actions.
“Mangaleswaren acted disgracefully without thought for the potential impact on his victim. Dartford will be a safer place now he is behind bars.”
