AN IRISHMAN has pleaded guilty to robbing a pensioner in London while high on drugs, a court has heard.
Dermot Eoghan Hunt, 39, of Archway Road N19, appeared at Snaresbrook Crown Court on Tuesday, May 2, to enter his plea.
The court heard how Hunt approached his 71-year-old victim shortly before 11pm at Langdon Park DLR station on December 9, 2016.
Presenting a weapon Hunt, who is a qualified electrician, then asked the elderly man 'What have you got?' before robbing him of £4.
Representing the Irishman, defence counsel said it was a one-off situation, and that Hunt had been high on heroin and crack cocaine at the time of the offence.
The court was told that Hunt, who had treatment for his drug issues while in Ireland, had a previous good character.
The court also heard how Hunt had suffered with depression, following the death of his father and brother within days of each other seven years ago.
At the time of the incident, Hunt was wearing a Mayo GAA jersey, a blue hooded top with red stripes, and blue jeans.
The court also heard how Hunt - who today was dressed in a dark suit, blue shirt and tie - had returned to Ireland in January where his family were unaware of the offence he had committed.
He was arrested in Essex on April 3.
During a police interview, Hunt admitted the offence and said he was 'ashamed' of what he had done.
While his lawyers did not accept he used a four inch knife during the robbery, Hunt did admit using a 'Leatherman' toolkit during the offence.
Presiding over the hearing, the judge said the choice of weapon does not negate the offence was still robbery with a weapon.
Dermot Eoghan Hunt was bailed to appear for sentencing on May 23.
