Banbury police make arrest in relation to wave of car vandalism

The vandalism of cars in the Ruscote and Hardwick areas of the town have now numbered 52 and the arrest comes after a community hall meeting on Wednesday where residents voiced their concerns over the crime-wave.

The 15-year-old male from Banbury has been arrested on suspicion of causing criminal damage and has been bailed until December 11.

The arrest is in connection with a number of incidents of criminal damage in Ruscote and Hardwick which happened between Saturday November 12 and Monday November 14.

Representatives from Banbury police station reassured residents that they are doing the all they can to collect evidence on the crimes which include the slashing of tyres, breaking of windows and mirrors and keying paintwork.

Officers and members of both the town and district council urged residents not to take steps to engage in vigilantism against perpetrators but instead report any incidents.

Sgt Any Baylis said: “Don’t be afraid to use 999. If you see a crime in progress then 999.”

The police are exhausting all avenues of inquiry including monitoring both social media and CCTV footage and contacting local schools.

Investigating Officer, PC Neil Budd said “We continue to investigate this incident and would ask anyone who has information who has not yet been in touch with us to please call 101.”

Alternatively concerned residents can contact Banbury Neighbourhood Action Group (NAG) who act as a conduit between the public and local police.

You can email Banbury NAG at [email protected]