A man and a woman have been charged with robbery following a violent incident in an alleyway that left a woman injured and without her belongings.
The alleged attack occurred in the early hours of Sunday, 30 March 2025, in a narrow cut-through between Columbia Street and Craig Street in Darlington. Police say the victim, a woman whose identity has not been released, was assaulted and had her handbag stolen during the incident.
The woman sustained facial injuries and required hospital treatment. Her condition has not been publicly updated, but Durham Constabulary confirmed that the victim was left “shaken and hurt” by the ordeal.
Swift Police Action
An investigation was launched immediately by Darlington CID, with officers treating the matter as a high-priority case due to the level of violence involved. Their inquiries led to the arrests of Rebecca Raper, 42, of Brighton Road, and Dean Nicholson, 30, of Flamingo Close—both from Darlington.
The pair were charged with robbery and brought before Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, April 3.
Court Proceedings
Neither Raper nor Nicholson entered a plea during their first court appearance. Nicholson was remanded in custody, while Raper was granted bail with conditions. The decision to keep Nicholson detained highlights the seriousness of the alleged offence and his potential risk to the community.
Both defendants are expected to appear before Teesside Crown Court on 8 May 2025, where the case will progress to a fuller hearing.
Community Concerns
The incident has sparked concern among local residents, with the alleyway being a commonly used route for pedestrians. “It’s usually quiet here, especially at that time,” one resident told The Northern Echo. “It’s shocking something like this happened on our doorstep.”
Durham Police continue to urge anyone with information or potential CCTV footage from the area on the night of the incident to come forward.
Anyone with details that may assist the ongoing investigation is asked to contact Durham Constabulary via 101, quoting the incident date. Anonymous reports can be made through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
