Man arrested in connection with incident in Hemel Hempstead

A man has been arrested in connection with an incident in Hemel Hempstead last week.

It was reported that a woman was walking along St John’s Road sometime between 4am and 4.20am on Thursday 11 January, when she was allegedly grabbed and verbally threatened to get into a vehicle.

She collapsed to the floor in fear and her handbag was stolen before the suspect left the area.

Following a thorough investigation by detectives from the Dacorum Local Crime Unit, a person of interest was identified and arrested during the early hours of yesterday (Thursday 18 January).

Detective Inspector Jason Finnegan said: “Thankfully the victim was not injured but this was a very frightening ordeal for her and she continues to be supported.

“We understand the concern that this incident also caused among the local community and have had a team of detectives working day and night to trace a suspect while patrols were increased.

“We’ve reviewed hours of footage from more than 50 CCTV systems as part of our enquiries and have employed several other police tactics which have enabled us to make an arrest.

“The arrested man has been released on bail under strict conditions, while further enquiries are carried out.

“I’d like to thank the members of the public who contacted us with information, your calls really do make a difference. If you have information and haven’t yet spoken with police, we’d still like to hear from you as we work to progress the case.”

You can report information online, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101, quoting crime reference 41/2784/24.

Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form.

• A 54-year-old man from Edmonton was arrested on suspicion of attempted kidnap and robbery. He has been bailed while enquiries continue.