Disabled Man Robbed in Southampton
Police in Southampton are appealing for witnesses after a disabled man was robbed in a Southampton park and tipped out of his wheelchair leaving him helpless on the ground and in pain.
The 51-year-old paraplegic victim had his bum bag containing his medication and a quantity of money taken from him by the robbers who it's believed may have run off towards East Park after tipping him out of his chair.
It's thought the robbery happened shortly after 7.30am today, Monday, June 24 in Palmerston Park. He was found on the ground by a member of the public who called police. It is believed he had been lying on the ground for around half an hour before he was found.
Officers are now appealing for witnesses to come forward. PC Ian Pierce who is investigating the crime said: "We'd like to hear from anyone who was walking through the park at around the time of the robbery this morning and saw what happened or saw anyone suspicious hanging around or running from the area.
"We'd also like to hear from anyone who may have seen the victim as he made his way through the park. He is described as using a purple wheelchair and was wearing a black top with a 'Mad Dog' motif on it.
"This was cruel and callous attack on a vulnerable man unable to defend himself. To then tip him out of his wheelchair shows just how low these robbers are prepared to go and we need to catch those responsible.
"I would urge anyone with information to call me at the Priority Crime Team' at Hulse Road on 101 or they can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."
The victim is currently At Southampton General Hospital being treated after his fall.