Daylight robbery horror in Dewsbury as thug snatches phone from 13-year-old schoolgirl
A 42-year-old man has been locked up for 32 months after brazenly robbing a 13-year-old girl in broad daylight on a street in Dewsbury, West Yorkshire.
Swift Arrest After Schoolgirl’s Phone Snatched
Richard Hannan, a man with no fixed address, admitted the crime after snatching the teenager’s mobile phone on Caulms Wood Road on 15 November 2024. The victim was walking home from school when Hannan grabbed her shoulder and made off with her phone. The courageous teen immediately reported the robbery, sparking a rapid police response.
“Tackling street robbery is a priority,” said Detective Constable Alex Walker, who led the investigation. “We are fully aware of the distress this kind of offence causes, especially to young victims.”
Justice Served at Leeds Crown Court
Hannan faced Leeds Crown Court on 12 May 2025 and was slammed with a 32-month prison sentence. His guilty plea spared the schoolgirl the trauma of giving evidence in court, a relief welcomed by investigators.
This case highlights the serious stance taken by West Yorkshire Police when it comes to crimes targeting vulnerable victims, particularly children.
Community on Edge as Police Crack Down on Robberies
Government statistics show robbery can leave victims feeling anxious and unsafe, especially young people. In Kirklees, this case has sparked urgent conversations about youth safety and crime prevention.
West Yorkshire Police are boosting high-visibility patrols and stepping up community engagement to stamp out street robberies. They urge the public to report any suspicious activity via:
- Live Chat on the West Yorkshire Police website during operational hours
- Call 101 for non-emergencies
- Dial 999 in an emergency
- Crimestoppers hotline: 0800 555 111 (anonymous)
