Two men who snatched an elderly woman's purse in Brighton have been sentenced to a total of 42 weeks' imprisonment. The 78-year-old victim, from Brighton, had been visiting Santander in London Road in December 2018. Jason Ashton, 45, of Walmer Close, Brighton, returned some cash that the elderly woman had dropped on the floor. However, he then followed her to a bus stop, where he exchanged words with Adam Hume, 53, of Grand Parade. Shortly after, Ashton engaged the victim in conversation whilst Hume took the purse from her handbag, which was hanging on her walking frame, close to her oxygen tank. Police said a witness chased the suspects and managed to detain Hume, while Ashton returned the purse to the woman, minus the cash. Both suspects were later identified and charged with theft. They were sentenced to a total of 42 weeks' imprisonment and ordered to each pay £115 to the victim. DC Dan Aubrey-Smith, said: "This was a despicable crime on an elderly woman who has been left extremely distressed by the incident. "While she was not physically hurt, it has had a significant impact on her health and wellbeing, and her general confidence in going out. "Ashton and Hume identified an opportunity to exploit their vulnerable victim in broad daylight, and we’re grateful to everyone who has assisted in our investigation to bring them both to justice."
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