Jerry Maughan, 25, was described by police as “despicable” after he admitted snatching the bag and knocking the elderly lady to the ground.
The man from Wood Green was sentenced to three years and four months in jail at Maidstone Crown Court on April 4.
Kent Police was called to Church Path in the town centre shortly after 1pm on March 11, 2024, after the distressed pensioner asked staff at a High Street shop for help.(Image: Kent Police)
She had been walking her dog and pushing her trolley near the churchyard when Maughan approached her.
After bending down and fussing with the dog, he snatched the woman’s handbag away from her.
The victim clung to her bag, sustained an injury to her face and was knocked to the ground before the criminal ran away.
Officers hunted him down and just after 4pm, Maughan was arrested at a nearby home and charged the next day.
Detective Constable Emma Laimbeer said: “This despicable man had nothing but contempt for his victim – a pensioner out shopping and walking her dog – and cared nothing for her safety.
“He subjected her to a frightening ordeal and his abhorrent actions have had a lasting impact.
“I am very pleased that Maughan was swiftly arrested and charged, and is now behind bars. We will always strive to bring the perpetrators of such reproachable behaviour before the courts to face justice.”
