Jail For Attack on Pensioner

Swift action by Police Neighbourhood Team leads to early arrest

A 28 year old Atherstone woman who assaulted a 77 year old pensioner and stole her purse was sentenced to a 3 1/2 years prison term at Coventry Crown Court on Wednesday 25th July.

Macala Bannister approached the victim as she walked into Atherstone Town on 19th May, asking her for change. When the victim took out her purse Bannister callously pushed her over, grabbed the purse and ran off. Officers from the local Safer Neighbourhood Team immediately responded, containing and searching the area. Despite her attempts to evade them, Bannister was located near to the A5 and arrested. In court Bannister admitted stealing the purse but denied assaulting the victim. However, after hearing the victim’s account, the Court dismissed Bannister’s attempt to minimise the violence used by her.

Detective Inspector Richard Denny said,

“Fortunately street robberies such as this are rare in North Warwickshire. However, it is particularly odious that a woman should attack a vulnerable pensioner in this way under the guise of asking for help. Bannister’s arrest is testimony to the effectiveness of the local Safer Neighbourhood Policing Team. Her lengthy sentence will protect the community from harm by her for a considerable period and hopefully deter others from acting similarly”.

Police Sergeant Roger Fildes, manager of the local Safer Neighbourhood Team added

“I am particularly happy with the contribution of local Safer Neighbourhood Officers PC John Finney and PC Chris Smith in this matter. Committed to protecting their communities from harm, one of their primary functions, they were acutely aware of the impact this offence had on the victim. They used their considerable local knowledge to anticipate where the offender may go and acted quickly. Their instincts were correct, they located a person matching the description given and detained her. Their actions were fundamental in bringing this matter to a successful conclusion. This is a good example of Safer Neighbourhood teams responding to the needs of the community and working effectively in their response. “

District Commander Chief Inspector Mike Naughton summed up the thoughts of his staff

“Taking advantage and assaulting vulnerable members of our Communities is despicable and will not be tolerated. The sentence passed by the Court reflects the very serious nature of this offence and I trust will provide reassurance that working together we can better Protect our Communities”.