A 28-year-old man has admitted robbing a 92-year-old woman after he was filmed dragging her along the floor as she clung to her belongings, the Daily Mail reports.
Sanchez Edwards attacked her from behind outside a medical centre after following her into an alleyway in Hackney, east London, in June.
The elderly woman suffered cracked and bruised ribs as well as and extensive bruising all over her body after being dragged along the floor while her attacker tried to grab her bag.
Refusing to let go of the bag, she screamed and shouted until she was in such pain from being dragged along that she let go.
The 28-year-old, of no fixed address, made off with the bag down the alleyway.
The robbery took place in daylight at 2.40pm local time shortly after his victim posted a letter.
Edwards pleaded guilty to robbery at Wood Green Crown Court, where he was remanded in custody today. He will be sentenced at the same court on October 10.
Police released footage of the attack as well as images of the injuries Edwards inflicted on his victim, who has been left limping.
Officers launched a manhunt for Edwards after several people identified him.
Inquiries revealed he was a patient at Hackney's John Howard Centre.
Edwards, who has a history of illegal drug use, failed to return to the medium-secure psychiatric facility after going on unescorted leave on May 17.
On July 17 officers saw Edwards in Bethnal Green, east London. He ran away after seeing the officers, who pursued and arrested him. Edwards refused to answer any questions in custody and was charged with robbery the same day.
Detective Inspector Paul Ridley, from Hackney CID, said the attack had left the 92-year-old terrified.
"Edwards's attack has had a harrowing effect on his victim. In addition to the physical injuries she suffered, there is also the emotional impact and she still suffers from anxiety, re-occurring nightmares and remains terrified of leaving her home, the attack stripping her of her independence.
"To compound the devastating consequences of this crime, this lady was married for more than sixty years and her husband recently died.
"She misses him dearly and was his carer for the last decade."