Woman Caged For Mugging Pensioner

A heartless bag-snatcher, who dragged an 83 year-old pensioner to the ground in East London, has been jailed for four years.

Samantha Murray, 34, (pictured) of Genas Close, Ilford attacked the victim from behind, leaving her sprawled on the ground with back and hand injuries.

She was convicted of robbing the woman in Longwood Gardens, Barkingside on June 8, last year.

The victim vainly tried to hang onto her bag, but it was violently wrenched away by Murray.

A passer-by found her on the ground and flagged down a passing police car.

Officers drove the victim around the local area and she identified Murray at a bus stop in Cranbrook Road – still in possession of the woman's property.

Sergeant Matt Taylor from Redbridge Borough, said: “This was a violent robbery on an elderly lady going about her business.

“She has found the whole incident distressing and it has had a profound effect on her and the way she lives. It has saddened all involved in this case.

“Whilst I do not want this type of crime to happen, I want the public to know we will robustly investigate any robbery and see that those responsible are bought to justice.”