A violent thief is behind bars after admitting robbing and assaulting a disabled man in Dover.

"Deplorable bully" Troy Smith, 44, of no fixed address, was sentenced to two years and eight months when he appeared at Canterbury Crown Court.

On the evening of Sunday, July 3, Smith approached a man he knew in Pencester Gardens.

Smith punched his wheelchair-bound victim twice in the face, causing injuries. As the victim tried to make his way to a telephone box to call police, Smith threatened to burn him alive if he reported the assault.

The following day, the victim was waiting for a bus in Pencester Gardens when he was approached by Smith and another man. When he demanded £40 from the victim, he told Smith he only had about 40 pence. Smith punched his victim in the face again.

The victim managed to seek help from a nearby shop where staff came to his aid and the incidents were reported to police.

Investigating officer PC Pete Leeming said: "Smith left his victim in fear of being attacked, and what the repercussions might be if he tried to seek help.

"Smith was a bully, his actions were deplorable and he tried to take advantage of someone he thought was weaker than him. Unfortunately for Smith, he was wrong and is now in prison."