article_snippet: A drug addict who mugged frail pensioner Alan Barnes wept today as A drug addict who mugged frail pensioner Alan Barnes heard lawyers will argue A drug addict who mugged frail pensioner Alan Barnes was a 'hate crime'.
article_snippet: Alan Barnes - who suffers growth problems and is partially sighted - was attacked by drug addict Richard Gatiss (right) in January.
article_snippet: Nick Dry, prosecuting, said drug addict Richard Gatiss struck in an area of sheltered accommodation for disabled and elderly people.
article_snippet: drug addict Richard Gatiss also made a partial admission to police that drug addict Richard Gatiss knew of Mr Barnes prior to the attack.
article_snippet: Newcastle Crown Court heard that, in Mr Barnes opinion, drug addict Richard Gatiss was attacked due to drug addict Richard Gatiss disability.
article_snippet: It has previously been said in court that drug addict Richard Gatiss was trying to get money to buy legal highs when Judge Paul Sloan QC mugged Mr Barnes.
highlights_snippet: Drug addict arrested for attack and admitted assault with intent to rob .
  