Jail for ‘cowardly’ attacker who left 92-year-old man with broken hip
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Jail for ‘cowardly’ attacker who left 92-year-old man with broken hip

A MAN has been jailed after a ‘cowardly’ attack on a vulnerable 92-year-old man in his own home.

Patrick Dowling, 67, from Dunstable was jailed for 16 months at Luton Crown Court for the attack, which took place in May 2017.

He also received a restraining order after pleading guilty to grievous bodily harm.

Dowling launched the violent after he returned drunk to his sheltered housing accommodation and couldn't find his keys.

He banged on the property’s communal door and after being let into the building, began screaming and banging on his neighbours’ doors.

When the victim opened his door, Dowling punched him, knocking him to the ground and breaking his hip.

Dowling then went to bed, leaving the severely injured man lying in his own doorway.

Investigation Officer Gary Hales said: “This was a cowardly and vicious attack on a vulnerable man who, at 92 years old, had the right to live out his years in peace.

“The attack has had a significant impact on his life and I am glad the judge has sent Patrick Dowling to prison.

“The sentence sets an example that attacking the most vulnerable in our society is abhorrent and will not be tolerated.”