Abingdon Town

Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) in Abingdon Town Centre

The team were made aware of a report concerning a serious offence against a female in the town centre. Once a suspect was identified, officers assisted with efforts to locate and arrest the male, drawing on their local knowledge of areas he was known to frequent.
As a result, the male was sighted by a proactive member of the public who was aware that he was wanted by police. PC Musat and PC Osborne, with support from our ICR colleagues, successfully located and arrested the suspect.
In addition, PC Hackett has been supporting a vulnerable female in obtaining a Closure Order following ongoing issues involving anti-social behaviour, unwanted visitors, and concerns around further criminal activity at her address. The Closure Order has helped safeguard the victim, reduce the risk of further harm, and provide her with the opportunity to engage with partner agencies to access the additional support she requires.
A male has been issued with a Community Protection Warning (CPW) in response to concerns regarding his behaviour in and around the Abbey Meadow swimming pool area. Although investigations did not identify sufficient evidence to prove any criminal offences, the individual's conduct caused concern and had the potential to negatively impact those using the facility and surrounding area.
The warning was issued as an early intervention measure to address the behaviour, safeguard members of the public, and deter any future conduct that could lead to criminality or anti-social behaviour. This proportionate use of powers demonstrates the Neighbourhood Team’s commitment to protecting community spaces, providing reassurance to residents, and taking positive action to prevent issues from escalating.

Retail theft and financial scams in Abingdon

Following a recent series of shop thefts at the CO-OP on Northcourt Road, the team obtained and reviewed CCTV footage. Through their strong local knowledge and awareness of recent prison releases within the area, officers were able to identify the suspect.
The offender was subsequently arrested and charged with multiple theft offences. Further enquiries identified that he was in breach of the conditions of his licence following his recent release from prison. The team liaised closely with Probation Services, providing the relevant information to support enforcement action.
As a result of this partnership working, the offender was recalled to prison for breaching the terms of his licence and will now serve the remainder of his custodial sentence. This outcome not only brought a prolific offender to justice but also helped prevent further offending within the local community.

Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) in Abingdon

A suspect was identified after reports of an individual riding a Sur-Ron electric bike in a dangerous manner around the town, placing other road users at risk and almost colliding with an elderly woman. The offender was not expecting an early morning visit from the Neighbourhood Team and was located at his home, where he was found attempting to conceal drugs at the time of his arrest.
The suspect was taken into custody, where he further demonstrated his disregard for the law by attempting to escape and assaulting a police officer. As a result, he was charged with multiple offences and remanded into custody. He has since been made subject to strict bail conditions, including an 8pm curfew pending his court appearance.
The operation also resulted in the seizure of the illegal Sur-Ron bike, removing a significant risk from the streets and helping to improve community safety. This action serves as a reminder that electrically assisted pedal cycles (EAPCs) must comply with legal requirements, including a maximum assisted speed of 15.5mph. Vehicles capable of significantly higher speeds may require registration, insurance, and a licence to be ridden legally on public roads.
In addition to this enforcement activity, the Neighbourhood Team has been actively involved in local reassurance patrols during the World Cup, visiting licensed premises across the area to engage with businesses and the public. These patrols have helped ensure that residents and visitors can enjoy the tournament safely, while promoting a positive atmosphere and preventing alcohol-related disorder.