MICHAEL HANMORE SENTENCED TO LIFE FOR HORRIFIC ATTACK ON ELDERLY WOMAN ON THE ISLE OF SHEPPEY
A man responsible for a brutal assault and sexual attack on an elderly and disabled woman in her own home has been handed a life sentence in prison.Michael Hanmore, aged 46, committed his heinous crimes at a residence on the Isle of Sheppey during the early hours of Saturday, 7 May 2022.
The attack was particularly disturbing, involving not only a violent assault but also the theft of the victim’s vehicle from outside her property.
Following the incident, Hanmore was swiftly apprehended by officers from Kent Police in London the very next day.
His arrest came after a thorough investigation that linked him directly to the crimes, and he subsequently admitted to being responsible for the offences.
The victim, a resident of Queenborough Road in Sheerness, endured a terrifying ordeal that has left a lasting impact.
On Tuesday, 20 May 2025, Hanmore appeared before Maidstone Crown Court, where he was sentenced to serve a minimum of 12 years in prison before he becomes eligible for parole.
This sentence takes into account the time he has already spent in custody while awaiting trial.
Additionally, the court imposed a lifelong Sexual Harm Prevention Order, which will restrict his activities and monitor his behavior for the rest of his life.
The attack itself was prolonged and deeply traumatic.
According to reports, the woman was awakened around 2 a.m.
by noises coming from her kitchen.
Moments later, Hanmore forcefully entered her bedroom and launched a sustained assault.
During this assault, he raped her and then proceeded to stamp on her arms and body, demanding money.
The victim was subjected to over an hour of terror inside her own home.
After the assault, Hanmore stole cash from within her room.
He also took her mobile phone and tablet, which left her unable to call for help immediately.
It was only after a visitor arrived at her home just after 9 a.m.
that she was able to disclose what had happened.
The visitor’s arrival was crucial in alerting authorities and initiating the investigation.
Detectives from Kent Police launched a detailed inquiry into the incident.
They utilized ANPR (automatic number plate recognition) technology to track the route taken by the victim’s car after it was driven away from her residence.
This technological evidence played a key role in identifying Hanmore as the suspect.
He was located and arrested in Hackney, East London, on the evening of Sunday, 8 May, bringing a measure of justice for the victim and her family.
