Dover Thieves Jailed for Brutal Bank Card Theft and Assault
Two men from Dover have been locked up after mugging and assaulting a man in a chilling late-night attack.
Violent Robbery in Folkestone Road
On the night of August 23, 2025, Tom McConnell, 31, and Christopher Bygraves, 37, ambushed a man in his 30s along a footpath leading to Military Road. The pair snatched his phone and wallet, then brutally punched him, leaving the victim with serious cuts and bruises to his head.
Passers-by rushed to the man’s aid, providing first aid before Kent Police arrived. Officers swiftly began an investigation at the scene after the suspects fled on foot.
Quick Arrest and Guilty Pleas
Bygraves and McConnell were arrested just six days later, on August 29, and charged the next day. Both admitted theft, assault, and fraud after trying to use the victim’s stolen bank card to pay for fuel at a local petrol station.
Sentenced to Jail
On February 27, 2026, McConnell of Durham Hill was handed a sentence of 20 months behind bars. Bygraves, also from Durham Hill, received 18 months.
“This was a frightening, unprovoked attack on a man outnumbered by his assailants. Thanks to courageous members of the public and diligent police work, justice has been served,” said Detective Constable Hugo McFadyen. “I hope these sentences reassure both the victim and the community that violence and exploitation will not be tolerated.”
