A distressing incident occurred in Rhondda, Wales, where a woman aggressively robbed an elderly man with Parkinson’s disease, causing him to cry. The woman, identified as Kerryann Phillips, 45, along with two men, targeted the 68-year-old man as he walked towards Ystrad railway station on September 8. She approached him, asking what was in his pockets, and proceeded to search through his coat, taking his wallet and mobile phone.
During a sentencing hearing at Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court, it was revealed that Phillips and the two men shouted at the elderly man, attempting to sell him a watch. Despite his attempts to walk away, the situation escalated as Phillips forcibly tried to access his pockets, leading to a physical altercation where the victim fell to the ground. Subsequently, she snatched his phone and wallet before fleeing the scene with the two men, leaving the man in distress and calling out for help.
Authorities later found Phillips at her residence, where she appeared intoxicated. The stolen items were recovered from her home, though she initially claimed they belonged to a friend. Phillips, who has a history of previous convictions including theft and shoplifting, pleaded guilty to the robbery. The victim, in a statement, expressed his fear and disbelief at the aggressive and abusive nature of the attack, stating that he no longer feels safe in the area and has altered his walking routes to avoid a similar incident.
During the court proceedings, defence barrister Alice Sykes highlighted Phillips’ struggles with drug misuse and past traumatic experiences, citing a difficult upbringing and personal loss. Judge Jeremy Jenkins condemned the defendant’s actions, emphasising that the victim posed no threat and deeming the behaviour as disgraceful. Phillips was sentenced to 27 months in prison and issued a restraining order for five years.
The incident has left a lasting impact on the elderly man, who voiced his trauma and altered sense of security following the attack. The community and authorities condemn such acts of violence and exploitation, underscoring the need for compassion and support for vulnerable members of society. The sentencing serves as a reminder of the consequences of such actions and the importance of upholding justice and protection for all individuals, especially those who may be more susceptible to harm.