29 Jun 2009, 1456 hrs IST

A man has been cleared of attacking Nicole Farhi.

Matthew Mykoo, 27, was found guilty of committing seven "strangulation" robberies on women between March and June last year by London's Wood Green crown court yesterday (24.06.09), but was found not guilty of the incident involving the fashion designer and eight other separate attacks.

Matthew's brother Daniel, 28, had already admitted attacking the 62-year-old French designer, along with 18 other offences.

Judge Nicholas Browne told the brothers: "I warn you in very clear terms that an indeterminate sentence for public protection is virtually inevitable bearing in mind the number of victims and the fact that these robberies were of the most serious type I have ever encountered.

The sentence which I impose on you will be measured in many years - I don't rule out a life sentence.

"The sentence which I impose on you will be measured in many years - I don't rule out a life sentence."

Nicole was robbed outside her London home last year, with her attackers choking her until she was unconscious before taking a diamond ring and Rolex watch from her.

Giving evidence in court, Nicole admitted she thought she was going to die during the assault.

French Caribbeans Matthew and Daniel worked together and targeted women in rich neighbourhoods who were on their own. They also attacked one man.

During the trial, the jury were told the brothers were a "strangle robber" team, with Daniel choking victims from behind while Matthew, armed with a knife, took valuables from them.

It has been claimed the brothers stole to fund their £12,000-a-month drug habit. They are believed to have stolen around £300,000-worth of goods.

The brothers will be sentenced on July 23.

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