Prostitute was 'paid and robbed'

A Suffolk man who kicked and punched a prostitute as he stole her handbag has been jailed for three years.

Gyamfi Kyereme, 25, of Breydon Way, Oulton Broad, attacked Caroline Leeder in Norwich's red light area on 14 September 2003.

Norwich Crown Court heard that Kyereme, who admitted a charge of robbery, had paid the prostitute £30 for "services rendered" before pushing her to the ground and stealing her bag.

The defendant was arrested by two police officers after they were alerted to the attack by Ms Leeder's cries for help.

Jonathan Morgans, defending, said Kyereme was ashamed of what he had done.

Judge Paul Downes said on Friday he had to jail Kyereme because of the violence of his attack.

"She (Ms Leeder) is particularly vulnerable and the courts have to protect her".