A robber will spend at least 23 years behind bars after being found guilty of murdering an elderly shopper before taking off with his box of Cornflakes and cottage pie in London.
Peter Augustine, 59, received a life sentence today for the murder of John Mackey, 87, who died two days after the violent assault in Manor House, Hackney on May 6. The fatal attack occurred after Augustine stalked his victim from a Co-op shop.
The pensioner’s shopping bag, which held everyday groceries including breakfast cereal and a ready meal, became the motive for the violent assault that would claim Mr Mackey’s life.
Witnesses saw Augustine assaulting Mr Mackey and rifling through his clothing whilst the pensioner lay helpless on the pavement.
A member of the public contacted emergency services after hearing someone demand “give me the bag” and discovering Mr Mackey unconscious on the pavement.
Hospital staff treated Mr Mackey for cerebral haemorrhage and fractured ribs, but his condition deteriorated rapidly.
Despite the efforts of medical professionals, Mr Mackey died from his injuries on May 8.
Metropolitan Police officers detained Augustine that same day, with video surveillance revealing he had followed Mr Mackey from a kebab shop.
During his time in custody, Augustine displayed aggressive conduct and showed no regret for his actions, the Old Bailey heard.
Peter Augustine was jailed for life after murdering John Mackey, before stealing his shopping which included a cottage pie
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SCOTLAND YARD/GETTY
His violent behaviour included hurling coffee at an officer and issuing multiple threats.
Earlier this month, jurors found Augustine guilty on charges of both murder and robbery.
In a moving tribute, Mr Mackey’s relatives remembered him as an exceptional uncle who brought joy to his 22 nieces and nephews.
“He was the perfect uncle: funny, charming, mysterious and very definitely mischievous, never seen without his trilby hat and always immaculately dressed,” they stated.
Acting Detective Chief Inspector John Marriott, who headed the inquiry, condemned the senseless nature of Augustine’s crimes, saying: “It is a shameful tragedy that John was killed by Augustine, for a mere few bits of shopping. He deserved better.”