Blind man robbed in his own home in ‘despicable’ attack

By GARETH EDWARDS
Published on 16/11/2012 13:44

A DISABLED man has been assaulted and robbed in his own home in a “despicable” attack, police have said.

The incident happened around 12.50pm on Thursday, at an address in Broughton Road.

The 39-year-old, who is blind and requires the use of crutches and a wheelchair, received a knock at his door and went to answer.

When he opened the door a man forced his way in and presented a sharp object before robbing the man of his possessions.

A struggle ensued during which the victim suffered a cut to his face and was knocked to the ground before the man made off from the property.

Police are now keen to speak with anyone who can assist with their enquiries.

The suspect is described as being around 5ft 10ins tall with a slim build. He had a local accent, is believed to be in his mid twenties or early thirties and smelled strongly of stale body odour, smoke and alcohol.

Detective Sergeant Dave Pinkney said: “This was a despicable and opportunistic theft, which targeted a vulnerable man who was virtually unable to defend himself.

“Despite his visual impairment, the victim has provided us with a fairly detailed description of the suspect and we are carrying out enquiries within the local community to identify him.

“Anyone who was in the Broughton Road area on Wednesday afternoon and remembers seeing anything suspicious, or who can help us trace the man responsible for this crime is asked to contact police immediately.”

Anyone with information should call Lothian and Borders Police on 0131 311 3131, or the charity Crimestoppers in complete anonymity on 0800 555 111.