Sheffield street robber and his dog attacked NHS worker during attempted bag snatch

Sheffield Crown Court heard on August 25 how Michael Thomas Leach, aged 27, of Firshill Rise, Sheffield, targeted the NHS worker on Herries Road, Sheffield, after he was leaving the city’s Northern General Hospital.

Amy Earnshaw, prosecuting, said: “He was working and carrying a bag over his left shoulder and he left the hospital grounds and saw a man with a dog and he walked over Herries Road and he was followed by the defendant.”

Miss Earnshaw added Leach asked for his bag and grabbed the handles and a struggle took place and the defendant’s dog tried to take hold of the complainant.

The complainant fell and was injured, according to Ms Earnshaw, and failed attempts were made to snatch the bag until Leach walked away.

Leach, who has previous convictions, pleaded guilty to the attempted robbery from May 7.

The complainant stated he has suffered sleepless nights and is nervous about people breaking into his home or attacking him and he feels the defendant should be punished but also feels he needs help.

Ian Goldsack, defending, said mental instability influenced Leach’s offending and he has apologised and wants to address his alcohol issues.

Judge Sarah Wright described Leach’s victim as a “remarkable man” for his compassion and recognised Leach’s progress with mental health and alcohol issues.

Leach was sentenced to two years of custody suspended for two years with a rehabilitation requirement and alcohol treatment, and 150 hours of unpaid work.