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A man has been jailed for a year after violently robbing a woman on a train approaching Farnborough railway station, following a British Transport Police (BTP) investigation.
Leon Farry, 26, of Farnborough, pleaded guilty to robbery at Winchester Crown Court on 14 May. He was sentenced to 12 months’ imprisonment at Reading Crown Court on 13 June.
The incident happened just before midnight on 7 June 2024, when the victim was travelling with her boyfriend. While her partner was asleep, Farry approached the pair and attempted to snatch the victim’s handbag from the table in front of her.
A struggle ensued as the victim tried to hold on to her bag. Farry then punched her in the face before successfully pulling the bag away and fleeing onto the platform.
Luckily, an off-duty Metropolitan Police officer and a prison officer who were nearby heard the victim’s boyfriend calling for help. They managed to detain Farry on the platform until BTP officers arrived and arrested him.
“No place for violence on the railway”
Detective Constable Ewen Roberts of BTP said:
“Farry acted with staggering levels of arrogance and aggression, lashing out violently at the victim when he wasn’t able to get what he wanted.
“This was an incredibly scary and horrific incident for the victim, so I’m extremely pleased to see Farry put behind bars. There is absolutely no place for violence or robbery on the railway network, and I hope this case serves as an example to those who would seek to profit at the detriment of others.”
How to Report Incidents on the Railway
Anyone who witnesses or experiences a robbery or violence on the railway is urged to contact British Transport Police by texting 61016, calling 0800 40 50 40, or dialling 999 in an emergency.
