Brazen Robber Jailed After Violent Delivery Van Snatch Gone Wrong
A violent thief who tried to hijack a delivery van in Gravesend has been locked up for over three years – all thanks to the quick thinking and bravery of his victim.
Attack on Delivery Driver Ends in Failure
On the afternoon of 30 November 2024, a delivery driver had just finished dropping off a parcel on Ingoldsby Road when she was violently attacked. The robber grabbed her clothes, dragged her from the driver’s seat, and threw her to the ground before jumping into the van.
Despite his efforts, the van wouldn’t start. That’s when the courageous driver struck back – reaching into the cab, grabbing the ignition key, and fleeing to a nearby house for safety.
Though the crook managed to snatch some parcels from the passenger seat, he had to ditch the van and flee on foot empty-handed.
Swift Police Work Snaps Up Suspect
Kent Police pored over CCTV footage, clearly capturing the attacker’s face. On 8 January 2025, they arrested 48-year-old Mitchell from Thistle Road, Gravesend. Officers seized a white hooded top he wore during the crime.
Mitchell was identified in a police lineup and later pleaded guilty to robbery at Woolwich Crown Court. On 29 April, he was sentenced to three years and two months behind bars.
Police Laud Driver’s Heroism
“Mitchell is a violent and cowardly bully who thought he could steal a van full of parcels by assaulting the woman driver,” said Detective Constable Andrew Saunders of North Kent CID. “He was foiled by the tenacious victim who saw her chance to grab the vehicle keys when the engine did not start up. She should be commended for her brave actions.”
“Once we recovered CCTV footage that allowed us to identify him, it was only a matter of time before he was arrested and brought to justice. Gravesend will be a safer place in his absence.”
