Further charges could be laid in the case against the man who attacked Josie Ray outside the Southampton Post Office in February.

Tyrone Brangman, 16, has already pleaded guilty to stealing Mrs. Ray's purse and contents as well as using personal violence to do so.

"We can have additional charges," said Director of Public Prosecutions Kulendra Ratneser. "But we will have to decide that at the appropriate time and it is dependent on a victim impact statement from (Mrs. Ray's) husband and two daughters."

The charge of using personal violence is separate from the consequence of the resulting injuries, he explained.

As for what further charges could be laid, he said: "It's difficult to say at this stage. We have to look at the victim impact statements and see what they have to say. Only then can I give you an honest answer."

Mrs. Ray has been in a coma and on life support ever since she was attacked outside the Post Office as she was retrieving her mail. Her daughter Carol Culver told The Royal Gazette she is still in the same condition in the hospital.

Brangman has not yet been sentenced for the charges already laid.

He is due to appear for mention in Supreme Court on July 1, when the results of a social inquiry report into the matter are expected to be given.