Man Sentenced for Robbing Elderly Woman in Hospital
Stevie Michael Smith, 39, of no fixed abode was sentenced to 18 months in prison yesterday after being charged with assault and robbery following an incident in June 2022.
The incident occurred at the University Hospital of North Tees when Smith had been discharged from the hospital. He noticed an elderly woman aged in her 70s alone in a room and he went in and took her purse. The victim challenged Smith and stood in front of the door and Smith shoved her out of the way and made off.
A nurse at the hospital stopped Smith and took the purse back off him and he was arrested by officers soon after.
A Cleveland Police spokesperson said: “Police were already in the hospital dealing with another incident so we were able to arrest Smith before he had chance to leave the hospital grounds.
“We would like to take this opportunity to thank the victim for her courage throughout this ordeal and the prosecution process. Without her support, Smith would not have received this sentence for his crimes.
“To prey on a vulnerable woman in hospital is completely unforgiveable and we are satisfied with the sentenced handed to Smith. He will now spend Christmas behind bars.”
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