Brutal Burglars Terrorise Elderly – One Caught and Jailed
Michael Maughan, 18, from Enfield, has been slammed with eight years behind bars at Wood Green Crown Court. He was convicted in his absence for two counts of aggravated burglary, one count of aggravated vehicle taking, and possessing an offensive weapon.
Fear and Violence in Victims’ Own Homes
Detective Constable John McGranahan, leading the probe, said: “Maughan and his gang terrified elderly victims in their own homes — the one place they should feel safe.”
He added, “The level of violence was shocking. To target the vulnerable like this is abhorrent. He has stolen not just their belongings but their independence.”
Maughan tried to dodge justice by fleeing mid-trial. But cops tracked him down and dragged him back. “Now he’s starting a long prison sentence he deserves,” DC McGranahan said.
Horrific Attacks on the Elderly
- On 28 Feb 2020, two men banged on the door of an elderly couple’s home in Haringey. The 83-year-old woman answered but was shoved aside by men armed with screwdrivers.
- They demanded valuables and tried ripping rings off her fingers.
- One thug stripped the 79-year-old man’s pyjama top and smeared fabric conditioner on his chest, causing painful burns.
- The pair escaped with a small haul of jewellery.
- Hours later, two men smashed a patio door of an 84-year-old in Edmonton. The victim’s home CCTV showed her desperate scramble and screams as they chased her.
- The crooks threatened her with a large screwdriver and ransacked the house for cash and coins before fleeing.
Forensics and Police Hunt Bring Justice
Police swooped and launched a full forensic exam. ANPR spotted a stolen car linked to the crooks in Hertfordshire, later found abandoned in Brighton. Forensic tests on the vehicle’s contents revealed DNA on a bottle that belonged to Maughan.
He was last seen as a passenger in a car stopped on Muswell Road, N6, on 24 June 2020. He was charged the next day with multiple offences tied to the raids.
Police Urge Public to Come Forward
DC McGranahan urged anyone with info to help: “Think of your own parents or grandparents — do the right thing.”
If you have details, contact police on 101, quoting reference Cad 2823/28Feb20, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
