Robert Rinder feels ‘overwhelming sense of sadness’ for thieves who mugged him

Judge Robert Rinder has said he feels an ‘overwhelming sense of sadness’ for the thieves who mugged him.

The barrister and star of Judge Rinder had his mobile phone stolen by ‘three boys wearing balaclavas on bikes’ this week in north London, and was left ‘in shock’.

Speaking after his initial tweet about the incident, the 42-year-old said: ‘After the rage, I feel an overwhelming sense of sadness for these boys because I’ve seen where their path leads.

‘In the meantime we need to champion, train & fully resource our brave police officers – who come from EVERY background – to work with ALL communities to protect us.’

Rinder had initially tweeted saying: ‘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).’

Fans and friends of the star have been sharing messages of support, with singer Beverley Knight saying: ‘I am so sorry Robert. I don’t care about privilege, nothing about what happened to you is ok.’

Rinder responded: ‘Hear that. The “privilege” is knowing that I can sort this out and get it replaced. As you know, our phones are lifelines to friends & family (especially in lockdown). For thousands of other victims this means being cut off or losing a fortune. Thanks for your love.’

Channel 4 News presenter Krishnan Guru-Murthy tweeted: ‘Main thing is you’re ok. Tried texting you but…..doh. Call if you need anything.’

The London Met Police told Metro.co.uk 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.’

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