A 92 YEAR OLD woman was subjected to a vicious attack by Sanchez Edwards – leaving her bruised and traumatised to an extent that police officers involved in the case were shocked at the level of violence used.
The incident occurred on 27th June. The victim was walking through Hoxton when Edwards tried to take her handbag. She resisted and incurred physical injuries – extensive bruising and cracked ribs – as Edwards fought to get control of the handbag.
Police soon identified Edwards as the attacker from CCTV footage. They found out that he had been an in-patient at a medium secure psychiatric facility in Hackney and he had been out on unescorted leave on 17th May – and had failed to return.
After a massive appeal to the public for help, Edwards was spotted in Bethnal Green. Although he ran off, police followed him and were able to detain him and arrest him. He was charged with offences relating to the robbery on 17th July.
Sanchez appeared at Wood Green Crown Court today, 15th August, and pleaded guilty. He was remanded in custody and is due to return to the Court to be sentenced on 10th October.
Detective Inspector Paul Ridley, from Hackney CID, said: “Edward’s attack has had a harrowing effect on his victim. In addition to the physical injuries she suffered, there is also the emotional impact and she still suffers from anxiety, re-occurring nightmares and remains terrified of leaving her home, the attack stripping her of her independence.
“To compound the devastating consequences of this crime, this lady was married for more than sixty years and her husband recently died. She misses him dearly and was his carer for the last decade.
“I would like to thank the public for all the assistance they provided throughout this case and the heartfelt messages of support for the victim. The excellent quality of the CCTV footage assisted us in making the vital breakthrough and identifying Edwards as the robber.
“I truly hope this conviction offers a degree of closure for the victim and she is able to re-build her life.”
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