A WOMAN who assaulted and tried to rob a couple in Shirley has been jailed.
Melissa Elliker attacked a man and a woman in the early hours of New Year’s Day after failing to steal the woman’s handbag.
West Midlands Police said the 37-year-old followed the pair, who had been on a night out, through the town before attempting to snatch the woman’s handbag on Stratford Road.
Police said when they tried to stop her, Elliker assaulted them both, causing them facial injuries and bruising.
Elliker was unsuccessful in stealing the handbag and fled the area.
CCTV footage examined by officers showed Elliker loitering in the area around Parkgate.
Elliker, of Halifax Road, Shirley, pleaded guilty to attempted robbery and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
She was sentenced at Birmingham Crown Court to three years in prison for robbery, with an additional year for activating a previous suspended sentence.
PC Emily Fowler, from Solihull LPA’s Investigations team, said: “This was a targeted attack on two people who were minding their own business having enjoyed a night out for New Year’s Eve.
“Elliker followed them and was prepared to use violence to get away with the crime.
“Fortunately she was unable to get away with the handbag, but this will have been an extremely traumatic attack for the man and woman Elliker targeted.
“Everyone in Solihull has the right to go out and feel safe in the streets, and we will continue to seek justice for anyone who has been a victim of crime in the borough.”
