Teenager arrested after attempted robbery from a pregnant woman in Banbury

A pregnant woman became the victim of a robbery attempt after a male approached her as she walked with her young son in the Foscote Rise area of Banbury, The suspect demanded she hand over her money and told her he had a knife.

The attempted robbery happened around 2.35pm on Monday May 10.

The incident happened after the victim, a pregnant woman, noticed a person wearing dark clothing on the other side of the road walking towards Coppice Close and he walked past them. She then became aware of a person behind her.

They demanded money and told her that he had a knife. She turned towards them and saw that it he looked like the person who had just walked past. She pulled her son behind her and stepped backwards, away from him.

He followed her continuing with his demands. The woman then screamed for help and the offender ran away along a passageway towards High Acres and Coppice Close.

No one was injured and nothing was stolen during the incident.

Police later arrested a 15-year-old boy from Banbury on suspicion of attempted robbery. He has been released on bail.

Investigating officer PC Katie Rhodes, based at Banbury police station, said: “I am appealing for anyone who may have witnessed this incident or anyone running towards High Acres and Coppice Close on Monday afternoon to get in touch. Equally, if you live or were driving in the area and have any doorbell, CCTV or dash-cam footage then please review this.

“This is an incredibly concerning incident in which the victim, who is also pregnant, showed immense courage and has understandably been left shaken.

"This incident took place in a residential area near a park on a warm, sunny day so it is likely that a number of people were out and about. I am keen to hear from anyone with any information that could assist with this investigation.

“You can get in touch using our online form or by calling 101 with reference number 43210200229. Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously via their website or on 0800 555 111.”