Joyrider, 25, attacks and robs 86-year-old woman after high-speed police chase
Kind-hearted pensioner targeted after trying to help injured man
An 86-year-old woman’s good deed turned into a nightmare when Shaun Kennelly, a 25-year-old joyrider, attacked and robbed her in her own home. After a wild police chase through Newark town centre, Kennelly fled on foot and hid in the pensioner’s garden, nursing an injured arm.
Unaware of his earlier antics, the kind-hearted woman invited him inside to tend his wound. Seconds later, he grabbed her by the throat and forced her to hand over all the cash in her purse before making off. The victim was left shaken with minor injuries.
Dangerous car chase sparks violent robbery
- Kennelly stole his mother’s car and sped through Newark town centre recklessly
- He ignored police orders, drove on the wrong side of the road, and reached speeds of nearly 80mph in a 30mph zone
- After crashing into a police car to escape, he ditched the vehicle and ran into the pensioner’s garden, barefoot and shirtless
- Police called off the chase to avoid further risk to the public
Justice served: Kennelly handed years behind bars
Arrested the next day, Kennelly initially denied involvement but later pleaded guilty to robbery, dangerous driving, aggravated vehicle taking, driving while disqualified, and criminal damage.
At Nottingham Crown Court on 13 January 2023, he was sentenced to four years and five months in prison. A 10-year restraining order was also placed on him, barring any contact with his victim. He faces a three-year driving ban upon release.
Police condemn ‘callous’ attack
“It’s a damning indictment of Kennelly’s character that his first thought when this kindly woman came to his aid was to rob her in her own home,” said Detective Constable Lauren Carpenter of Nottinghamshire Police.
“His actions were absolutely despicable, callous to the extreme, and caused his victim a horrific ordeal she did not deserve.
Kennelly also showed a blatant disregard for public safety with his dangerous driving. This behaviour is unacceptable and will never be tolerated.”
“We hope he uses his time in prison to reflect on his mistakes.”
