A man who fatally attacked an 87-year-old pensioner before stealing his shopping has been jailed for life, with a minimum term of 23 years.
Peter Augustine, 59, kicked, punched, and stamped on frail John Mackey in Manor House, London, on 6 May after the elderly man visited a Co-op and a takeaway shop. Augustine then fled with Mr Mackey’s bag, which contained cornflakes, a cottage pie, milk, a newspaper, and takeaway sausage and chips.
Mr Mackey, a beloved Irishman, was hospitalized with bleeding on the brain and broken ribs and died two days later. Augustine was convicted of murder, robbery, and theft, and sentenced at the Old Bailey. He did not attend the sentencing, citing back pain.
Judge Sarah Whitehouse KC described the attack as cowardly, targeting a frail man for basic groceries, and said Augustine showed no remorse. She noted that had he asked for help, Mr Mackey, described as kind and generous, would likely have assisted.
Mr Mackey’s niece, Patricia Schan, paid tribute to her uncle, highlighting his humor, charm, and community spirit, and criticized Augustine’s behavior during the trial, including threats and aggressive conduct in court.
CCTV footage showed Augustine following Mr Mackey and later carrying his bag, while police recovered the stolen groceries from Augustine’s residence. Despite living in reduced circumstances, the judge emphasized that the assault was deliberate and violent.
The family remembers Mr Mackey as a devoted uncle, Arsenal fan, and cherished member of his community, leaving a lasting legacy of love, laughter, and generosity.
