Thug Snatches Wallet from 78-Year-Old in Broad Daylight
John Ward, 41, brazenly mugged a 78-year-old man outside a cash machine on Bracebridge Drive, Bilborough, after the pensioner withdrew a large sum of cash.
On the morning of May 31, 2022, Ward casually stepped out of a car, snatched the victim’s wallet straight from his hands, and sped off in the same Vauxhall Corsa.
Quick-Thinking Public Helped Police Nab Offender
Thanks to a quick-thinking witness who memorised part of the car’s number plate, police traced the stolen Vauxhall and arrested all three occupants inside.
The victim’s wallet was found inside the vehicle. CCTV footage later showed the masked robber wearing clothes matching Ward’s.
Two Years and 11 Months Behind Bars for Cowardly Crime
Ward, from Victoria Street, Ironville, initially refused to answer questions but later pleaded guilty to robbery. On Thursday, Nottingham Crown Court sentenced him to nearly three years in prison.
“This was a wicked and cowardly attack on an elderly victim,” said Detective Constable Dionne Love.
“Ward saw an easy target and took full advantage. The victim, already battling serious health issues, was traumatised by this callous crime.”
“Thanks to the public’s sharp eye, we swiftly caught Ward with the stolen wallet. Justice has now been served.”
