ROBBERY IN BERKHAMSTED


POLICE are appealing for information and witnesses to a robbery in Berkhamsted last night (Wednesday, June 9).

At around 10.30pm a man who was jogging along the towpath by the canal was approached by another man. It is believed the offender demanded his mobile phone and then assaulted him with what is believed to be a bladed article. The man managed to run away but suffered minor injuries to his chest.

The offender is described as an Asian man in his mid to late 20s.

Detective Constable Kevin Deudon, investigating, said: “This is an extremely unusual incident for Berkhamsted which we are fully investigating. We would urge anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information about it to get in contact.

“The offence is believed to have occurred near to the sewage works by the bridge at the junction with Bullbeggars Lane. If you were in the Hall Park area of Berkhamsted at the time and saw a suspicious man around the location we urge you to call police.”

Anyone with information should call police on 0845 33 00 222. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers (an independent charity) anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Kevin continued: “Hertfordshire remains one of the safest counties but we are reminding residents to be on their guard and take these common sense measures to safeguard their personal safety.”

• Stick to busy and well-lit areas
• Avoid short cuts through quiet, unlit, secluded or wooded areas and alleyways
• Try to keep with friends rather than walk alone
• Don't speak to strangers
• Stay alert
• Don't use iPods or personal stereo headphones whilst walking or jogging because you may not be able to hear someone approaching
• Make sure someone knows where you are going and tell them when you've arrived

June 2010