FUNERAL OF FURY
Gypsy cash storm
TAXPAYERS hit out last night as it was revealed stabbed burglar Henry Vincent could get a state-funded funeral.
The career criminal, 37, died last week after he was stabbed by hero OAP Richard OsbornBrooks during a burglary on the pensioner’s home.
The 78-year-old and his wife Maureen, who has dementia, are in hiding over fears of reprisals from the 37-year-old thug’s gypsy pals.
Yesterday – as floral tributes to the dead man were ripped down by angry locals for the fourth time – it emerged that Vincent could receive a taxpayer-funded funeral because he was jobless when he died.
One 44-year-old man who lives round the corner from Mr Osborn-Brooks’ home in Hither Green, south-east London, said: “He has got a family so why should the taxpayer pay for it?
“Look at all those floral tributes to him. His family has got money so they can pay for it.”
And a woman who did not wish to be named said: “It stinks. He was milking the system for decades. He doesn’t deserve a penny off the taxpayer.” There is also likely to be a huge policing bill at the funeral as tensions threaten to spill over between Vincent’s pals and locals. Ian Gordon shouted “scumbags” yesterday as he ripped tribute bouquets down in the street where Vincent died. Mr Gordon said: “We have had enough in this country of scumbags.” Police warned they could arrest people who tear down the tributes for breach of peace. A Metropolitan Police spokesman said: “We urge members of the public to respect the wishes of those who choose to place flowers and other tributes.” Last night one of Mr Osborn-Brooks’ neighbours, Gordon Williams, 44, offered his fence as a shrine. Mr Williams said: “He burgled a house, that is wrong, but he had a life. He was a human.” Yesterday the fire brigade appeared to be installing fire alarms at Mr Osborn-Brooks’ house.