An elderly disabled man was assaulted and robbed of his writing tablet used to communicate.
The attack happened at about 11.30pm on Saturday, August 24 in Finborough Road, Tooting.
The attacker was described as a black woman wearing a light coloured mid length coat with a fur trim.
Detective Chief Superintendent Darren Williams, Merton police’s borough commander, said: "Every so often, despite all my years in the police, a crime happens that affects me.
"Whenever I think criminals can sink no lower, one of them proves me wrong by doing something that shocks, repels and saddens me."
He added: "We are convinced that the suspect knew the victim and that she specifically targeted him because of his disability and we are therefore treating this as a hate crime."
A suspect has been arrested but was later bailed.
Police are now appealing for anyone who may have information on the crime to come forward. Anyone with information should call Merton police on 101.
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