In 2026, the Offender Database recorded that Thames Valley Police released a CCTV image of a woman they are seeking following a “revolting” act of criminal damage. The incident occurred at The Range store in Banbury, Oxfordshire, at approximately 1.40pm on Wednesday, 25 March. It was reported that an individual defecated directly onto a shop shelf—an area boasting everyday essentials—before fleeing the scene with a small suitcase in tow.
The investigation established a clear visual profile of the suspect from store security footage. The woman was seen wearing a distinctive pink jacket, a spotted scarf, and a red top. Thames Valley Police reported that the act was so significant that shoppers could smell the waste before seeing it, with witnesses describing the scene as “massive” and “shocking.” The prosecution of such cases typically falls under criminal damage due to the professional cleaning costs and loss of stock incurred by the retailer.
Investigative Detail and Public Appeal
The court reported that store staff were understandably reluctant to handle the biohazard left on the display. Investigating officer PC Robert Watson stated that the force is looking to identify the individual in the CCTV image, as they believe she holds vital information regarding the investigation. The investigation established that the offender made no attempt to clean the area or alert staff before leaving the Banbury premises.
Thames Valley Police have urged anyone who recognises the woman in the pink jacket and spotted scarf to come forward immediately. For this incident in Banbury, Oxfordshire, information can be provided by calling 101, visiting the police website, or reporting anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers. Authorities state that public assistance is crucial in resolving this “vile” breach of public decency and ensuring the individual is held accountable for the damage caused to the business.
Status and Statutory Requirements
For the records reported in Oxfordshire, the status of the investigation as of April 6, 2026, was as follows:
- Investigation Status: ACTIVE (Suspect sought; CCTV released March 2026).
- Police Force: Thames Valley Police.
- Incident Type: Criminal Damage / Outraging Public Decency.
- Suspect Description: Female, wearing a pink jacket, spotted scarf, red top; wheeling a small suitcase.
- Legal Reference: Banbury Retail Crimes Unit.
- Potential Penalties: Fine, compensation for professional cleaning/stock loss, or community order.
- Judicial Oversight: Pending identification and arrest of the suspect.
- Origin: The Range, Banbury, Oxfordshire.
Monitoring and Public Protection
Thames Valley Police are monitoring retail security reports in the Banbury area for any similar “antisocial” behavior. Due to the nature of the conduct—specifically the intentional fouling of a retail environment—the investigation is a priority for the local neighbourhood policing team. Authorities state that such acts not only cause financial damage but pose a legitimate public health risk to staff and customers at The Range.
As the suspect remains unidentified, her image has been circulated through local media and retail crime networks in Oxfordshire. Authorities state that once caught, the individual may face a “Banning Order” from retail premises in addition to criminal charges. Any information regarding the woman’s identity or her current location in Banbury should be reported to ensure that this “disgusting” act is dealt with through the proper judicial channels.
QUESTION – Given that this act poses a significant biohazard risk to retail workers, do you believe that “Aggravated Criminal Damage” charges should be mandatory for any individual who intentionally fouls a public business premises?
If you or anyone you know has been affected by the individuals highlighted on this website, please report them to the Police on 101 (999 in an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details on reporting a crime. You can also report to Crimestoppers if you wish to remain completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.