Legal issues
The prosecution must prove the underlying theft: dishonest appropriation of property belonging to another with intention permanently to deprive. It must then prove the statutory connection between the force or threat and the stealing.
In group allegations, the evidence against each suspect should be separated. Presence or association does not automatically prove participation in the robbery.
Evidence that matters
Common evidence includes CCTV, facial or clothing identification, phone and location data, vehicle evidence, property recovery, fingerprints or DNA, witness identification, messages and the timing of movements before and after the incident.
Reasonable lines of enquiry
Enquiries may include obtaining complete CCTV from the route rather than a single clip, checking transport or location records, testing ownership or possession of recovered property, obtaining forensic results and reviewing identification procedures and descriptions.
What happens next
Robbery is an indictable-only offence and is dealt with in the Crown Court. Pre-charge investigations can involve identification procedures, device examination, forensic work and co-suspect interviews.
Immediate steps
Preserve location, travel, messages and any material showing clothing, vehicle use or whereabouts. Identify CCTV sources quickly. Do not contact witnesses or co-suspects in a way that could create evidential risk.
What should you send us?
Send the allegation, police papers, bail/RUI status, interview account, CCTV or stills, phone/location material, property recovery details, witness or identification material and next date.