Drunk thug attacks and robs a man on his mobility scooter

[sammason]

This really happened. The robber has been convicted. I wonder whether the man he robbed is still brave enough to go out for groceries

Comments

[splodgenoodles]

Yes, I think these crimes are about opportunity - preying on the easiest target for a "need" (like money for drugs). The attacker might even feel genuine remorse.

Hate crimes are also about preying on the weak, but about the thrill of power over others.

I fear attack and assume I am vulnerable because of my obvious weakness, although conversely I expect more passerby protection than if I looked 'normal'. But I also have changed my clothing since I became visibly disabled, in order to encourage an image of belonging (people care about me and are expecting me) and respectability (I'm not a 'crazy lady', but a respectable person unfortunate enough to need a scooter) in order to both protect myself and appeal to the passers-by that I count on for protection.

I think it's a great shame that I will no longer slouch around in whatever clothes I feel like. And that I have to be a good little cripple.

[sammason]

You changed your clothing! So did I. Pinstriped suits at the merest excuse, because when I look that way I get less shoulder-patting. I smile privately at the way my body art is mostly hidden. What's your chosen look?

[splodgenoodles]

Well, I'm a plus size. I guess I go for smart casual, but not *cheap* casual. I layer. I do wear stripey tights. My preference is for the currently very acceptable retro look.

Ironically, I think that experimental, avant garde looks can really backfire. Around here you can go for a bit fringe/subculturey, but not too much (and boy does that piss me off.)

[lilacsigil]

I'm also plus size, which I think adds an extra difficulty in that people are far more likely to see you as sloppy, poor and vulnerable.

[splodgenoodles]

And as for getting groceries - I imagine he's not.

I wouldn't be. If(when) this happens (because the odds are that it will) it will turn me into a complete hermit for a very long time.

[sammason]

We'll still be here in your computer, caring about how you feel. And hoping that somebody is fetching groceries when you want them.

[dimity_blue]

How horrible for that poor man who was robbed. It sounds as though he could have been badly hurt as well as terrified. I hope he hasn't suffered any ongoing damage due to the attack. And no, I wouldn't be surprised if he's resorted to getting his groceries delivered. :o(

I don't often go out now, and, when I do, I'm with someone. I can't lock my front door from outside and I soon run out of energy to push my chair. I admit, I also find it reassuring to be with someone while I'm out.

As for the attacker, who claims he was too drunk to remember, what a loser.

[renniek]

When a totally able-bodied friend was mugged (on a night bus) it really shook his confidence and for several months he wouldn't get on a night bus alone. When another was burgled, she didn't feel comfortable alone in her house for a few months. So I agree the poor guy may not be going out to the shops, certainly not after dark alone. I hope he can regain his confidence.