Cupid pleads guilty to Valentine's Day theft charge in Milton Keynes

Ian Cupid, aged 51, of Enders Croft, Medbourne, in Milton Keynes, was charged on Valentine’s Day this year with one count of theft from a person. He pleaded guilty at Aylesbury Crown Court on Wednesday.

At the same hearing Cupid was sentenced to 44 weeks’ imprisonment, suspended for 12 months.

He must also undertake ten days of rehabilitation activity, a nine month drug rehabilitation programme and was ordered to pay a £100 victim impact surcharge, £295.72 compensation and £300 court costs.

On 13 February this year, the victim, a 69-year-old woman, was walking in Grange Farm, when Cupid approached her from behind and grabbed her handbag.

There was a struggle and the victim struck Cupid with her shopping bag, before he made off with the bag towards Medbourne.

He was found a short while later in possession of some of the victim’s property. Further items were recovered from his home.

“This incident was terrifying for the victim and has had a significant impact on her confidence,” said investigating officer, PC Jacqui Baverstock from Milton Keynes Local CID.

“It has caused her severe emotional distress and although the value of the goods stolen wasnot high, they meant a great deal to her in sentimental value. This sentence sends out a clear message that this type of crime will not be tolerated.”