A man has been jailed for life after brutally attacking and raping a disabled elderly woman in her own home on the Isle of Sheppey.
Michael Hanmore Jailed at Maidstone Crown Court
Michael Hanmore, 46, of Queenborough Road, Sheerness, was sentenced to life imprisonment at Maidstone Crown Court on Tuesday, 20 May 2025. He must serve a minimum of 12 years before becoming eligible for parole, minus time served on remand.
Hanmore will also be subject to a lifetime Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO).
The Violent Attack
The horrific incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, 7 May 2022. The victim, an elderly and disabled woman, was awoken around 2am by noises in her kitchen. Hanmore forced his way into her bedroom, where he raped her, stamped on her arms and body, and demanded money.
He spent over an hour in the property, stealing cash, her mobile phone, tablet, and eventually fleeing in her car.
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The victim was left unable to call for help until a visitor arrived more than seven hours later, at around 9am.
Swift Arrest and Evidence
Kent Police launched an immediate investigation, using ANPR technology to track the stolen car. Hanmore was arrested the next evening in Hackney, East London, on Sunday, 8 May.
Mobile phone data and forensic evidence placed him at the scene. He was later charged with rape, burglary, and theft of a motor vehicle, to which he pleaded guilty.
Victim Passed Away Before Sentencing
Despite initially admitting to the crimes, Hanmore later sought to contest the charges, delaying the case. Tragically, the victim passed away before sentencing, never seeing justice served.
Police Reaction
Detective Chief Inspector Kath Way, Senior Investigating Officer, said:
“There can be few things as terrifying as someone breaking into your home in the middle of the night before attacking you in your own bedroom.
“Michael Hanmore showed no remorse and subjected his victim to appalling violence. He is a dangerous predator who belongs behind bars.
“While the delay to sentencing was distressing, I hope today’s outcome offers some comfort to her family, who have shown immense strength throughout.”
