A 42-year-old man has been jailed for 32 months after robbing a 13-year-old schoolgirl in broad daylight on a street in Dewsbury, West Yorkshire.
Richard Hannan, of no fixed address, pleaded guilty to the offence which occurred on Caulms Wood Road on 15 November 2024. The incident sparked a fast-moving investigation by the Kirklees District Crime Team, which led to his arrest and charge within five days.
The Robbery
The victim was walking home from school when Hannan approached, grabbed her shoulder, and snatched her mobile phone before fleeing the scene. The brave teenager quickly reported the crime, enabling police to launch a swift investigation.
“Tackling street robbery is a priority,” said Detective Constable Alex Walker, who led the case.
“We are fully aware of the distress this kind of offence causes, especially to young victims.”
Sentencing at Leeds Crown Court
Hannan appeared at Leeds Crown Court on 12 May 2025, where he was sentenced to two years and eight months in prison. His guilty plea spared the victim the trauma of testifying, something investigators welcomed.
The case reinforces the seriousness with which West Yorkshire Police treat offences involving vulnerable victims, particularly children.
Community Impact and Police Response
According to government data, robbery offences can leave victims feeling unsafe and anxious, particularly young people. In Kirklees, the case has sparked wider discussion around youth safety and crime prevention.
West Yorkshire Police continue to tackle street robbery through high-visibility patrols and community engagement efforts. They encourage the public to report suspicious activity:
- Live Chat via the West Yorkshire Police website (during operational hours)
- Call 101 for non-emergencies
- Call 999 in an emergency
- Crimestoppers (anonymous): 0800 555 111
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