Verdict Reached in Brutal Pensioner Murder Case
A 59-year-old man has been found guilty of murder after violently attacking an 87-year-old pensioner and stealing his shopping in North London. Peter Augustine was convicted of both murder and robbery at the Old Bailey following the horrific incident on May 6.
The court heard how Augustine targeted John Mackey after the elderly man had visited a Co-op store in Manor House. Mr Mackey, who stood at just 5ft 5ins and weighed less than nine stone, was described as being largely unable to put up any resistance due to his age and infirmity.
The Fateful Day: A Timeline of Events
On the afternoon of May 6, John Mackey left his home shortly after 5pm wearing his distinctive trilby hat and grey mackintosh coat, carrying both a walking stick and a black bag. At 5:12pm, he visited the Co-op where he purchased cornflakes, a cottage pie, and a Mirror newspaper, paying with a £20 note and receiving £11.50 in change which he placed in his trouser pocket.
Eighteen minutes later, Augustine began following the pensioner. Mr Mackey then visited Manor Kebab at 5:36pm to buy sausage and chips while the defendant waited outside. The elderly victim was last captured on camera at 5:50pm, with Augustine reappearing on CCTV just three minutes later carrying what appeared to be Mr Mackey's bag.
Violent Attack and Tragic Consequences
Passers-by witnessed Augustine attacking Mr Mackey and searching his jacket as he lay helpless on the ground. Another member of the public alerted police after hearing a shout of 'give me the bag' and discovering Mr Mackey lying motionless on the pavement.
Although Mr Mackey regained consciousness at the scene, he was unable to tell officers what had happened. He was treated in hospital for bleeding on the brain and broken ribs but tragically succumbed to his injuries two days later.
Prosecutor Jane Bickerstaff KC told the court that Augustine had used extreme force against the vulnerable pensioner. When the defendant kicked and punched an elderly, vulnerable and largely defenceless man, who was prone on the floor, the Crown says that he intended to cause him really serious harm, she stated.
Police pieced together the events using CCTV footage, and a subsequent search of Augustine's room uncovered what remained of Mr Mackey's groceries, including wrapping from the cottage pie and sausage and chips.
Justice Served After Emotional Trial
Following the verdict, Mr Mackey's family and loved ones could be heard cheering and crying in the courtroom. One family member expressed their relief, stating: 'Justice, right - that's what we wanted.'
The court heard that Augustine was living in reduced circumstances and was effectively homeless at the time of the attack. The defendant will be sentenced on November 28 for his crimes.
