Hemel Hempstead: Woman grabbed and told to 'get in car'

Between 4am and 4.20am yesterday morning (Thursday, January 11) the woman had been walking on St John’s Road, in the Boxmoor area.

A white or light-coloured car drove past her, and pulled into Sebright Road before stopping.

The woman was then approached by an unknown male, who is believed to have been driving the vehicle.

The man grabbed her and verbally threatened her to get into his car before, fearing for her safety, the victim collapsed to the floor.

St John's Road, near Sebright Road, Hemel Hempstead. (Image: Google Maps)

The unknown male then picked up her handbag and walked off, before the vehicle was driven away from the area.

The woman then sought help, and Hertfordshire police were called.

Officers have appealed for witnesses to come forward.

Detective Inspector Jason Finnegan said: “This was a very frightening ordeal for the victim who continues to be supported at this time.

“We understand that this incident will also cause a great deal of worry among the local community. I’d like to reassure people that we are doing all we can to trace this man as a matter of urgency.

"This includes house-to-house enquiries, a review of CCTV and other police tactics. Proactive patrols are also being carried out.

“As part of our ongoing enquiries, we’re also appealing for any witnesses or anyone with information to please come forward.

“Were you driving in the area around the time? Did you see a medium-sized, white or light-coloured car travelling around?

"We’d be particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have captured dash cam, doorbell camera or CCTV footage.

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“Even something that may seem insignificant could be prove key to progressing the investigation, so please get in touch. Thank you.”

Crimes can be reported to Hertfordshire police online at www.herts.police.uk/ro/report or by calling the police's non-emergency number 101, quoting ISR 69 of January 11, 2024.

Hertfordshire police's web chat function can be used by visiting herts.police.uk/contact.

Anonymous information can be given by contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via crimestoppers-uk.org.