A man who snatched a bag from an elderly woman with such force that she fell to the ground has been jailed.
CCTV footage shows 39-year-old Craig Creasey arriving outside a shop in Sittingbourne and having a short conversation with the pensioner.
He then snatched her bag before running towards his vehicle and driving away while the woman lay on the floor, having sustained bruising to her arm and soreness to her shoulder.
Minutes after Kent Police shared the footage online in an appeal for information, Creasey’s name was reported several times.
Officers swiftly arrested Creasey on the same date of the offence, April 14, and he has been remanded in custody since.
Officers were also able to reunite the victim with her bag, which contained several photographs that are of sentimental value.
Creasey, from Sittingbourne, admitted robbery and was sentenced at Maidstone Crown Court on Wednesday to 16 months in prison.
Investigating officer Detective Constable Nicola Lincoln said: ‘"This crime was carried out during lockdown, when most people are looking out for their vulnerable friends, family members and neighbours.
"Creasey saw his victim outside the shop and took advantage of the situation, pulling her to the ground, injuring her and stealing her bag. Though shaken and physically hurt, she has shown great bravery in assisting us with our case and should be commended.
"Though this was an awful experience for her, it brought out the best in the community, who rallied round and were keen to wish her well, send cards and flowers and even donate money to the NHS as per her wishes.
"A true reflection of the largely good, kind people in the community as opposed to the abhorrent actions of one person."
