Judge Robert Rinder is “in shock” after he was mugged on the street by three boys in balaclavas.
The 42-year-old Judge Rinder star said his phone was snatched by the three youths while he was out in north London on Wednesday night (24 March).
He’s now appealing to the public for help finding the culprits, offering a financial reward to anyone with information.
“I’ve just had my phone grabbed out my hands by three boys wearing balaclavas on bikes (Finchley Road & Canfield gardens). They laughed as I shouted to drop it,” Judge Rinder tweeted to his 131,000 Twitter followers.
“I’m in shock but am insured and privileged. Others are less lucky. Help me find these people and stop them (financial reward).”
I’ve just had my phone grabbed out my hands by 3 boys wearing balaclavas on bikes (Finchley Road & Canfield gardens). They laughed as I shouted to drop it. Im in shock but am insured & privileged. Others are less lucky. Help me find these people & stop them (financial reward).
— Robert Rinder (@RobbieRinder) March 24, 2021
Judge Robert Rinder, who is also an Evening Standard columnist, told the paper that he hoped the youths “find something else for their lives”.
“After the limited flush of rage, now gone, I feel an overwhelming sense of sadness for these boys – that this is where they are,” he said.
“I hope that they’ll find something else for their lives,” said the TV judge. “How sad they must be, they don’t know the path they’re on.
“I honestly hope that they’ll find purpose, joy and something lawful to do before they get to the end of the path because I’ve seen – after years of criminal work – what’s lies there.”
The London Met Police said in a statement: “Police are investigating after receiving a report of a theft at approximately 20.40 hrs on Wednesday, 24 March on Finchley Road.
“Three males dressed in black approached the victim and took his mobile phone. Enquiries are on-going. No arrests at this early stage.”