An addict who tried to snatch a mother’s purse so she could buy drugs has been told to stay away from Medway for two years.

Beautician Charlotte Shilletto, 26, admitted attempted robbery and was sentenced to 18 months suspended for two years with supervision when she appeared at Maidstone Crown Court.

Judge Philip Statman warned Shilletto, who was locked up in 2008 for four years for stabbing a prostitute: “If you decide you will stick the proverbial two fingers up to the court and not abide by my order, your feet won’t touch the ground.

“Go to the Medway Towns and you will go to prison. The choice is yours.”

The court heard victim Clare Sharp was walking along Rainham Road, Chatham, on June 11, with her young son.

As she passed a car, Shilletto called from the passenger seat: “Have you got a fag babe?”

Miss Sharp said she hadn’t. She went to a shop and bought some items, including cigarettes. Shilletto asked again for a cigarette.

Prosecutor Mark Cotter said Miss Sharp walked over to the car with her purse under her arm. As she passed over a cigarette Shilletto grabbed at the purse and there was a struggle.

"She didn’t lose her purse as a result of her bravery..." - Judge Statman

Shilletto, of Gravesham Court, Gravesend, let go and the car drove off. The victim remembered part of the registration number and Shilletto was arrested.

Mr Cotter said she had seven convictions for 20 offences.

Judge Statman told her: “You had been withdrawing from drugs and needed money to score.

“She didn’t lose her purse as a result of her bravery. But the impact has been profound.”

“The history of your offending is inextricably linked to the fact you have a serious problem with drug addiction.

“If you decide to co-operate, your life will be a whole lot better.”

Judge Statman said there would be a curfew from 8pm to 7am for six months and she would have to attend court for monthly reviews.

On being told that Shilletto’s family lived in Chatham, he relaxed the ban on going to Medway on Christmas Day.

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