Police statement

Dear Resident

We are aware of online speculation relating to an ongoing police investigation, circulating on social media.

Hertfordshire Constabulary can confirm that a woman from Hemel Hempstead has been charged as part of an ongoing investigation into child sexual offences.

Zara Lancashire, aged 20 of Datchworth Turn, was arrested on Monday 15 September 2025. She was subsequently charged on Wednesday 17 September 2025 with the following offences:

- One count of sexual assault of a child

- Three counts of distributing indecent images of a child

- Three counts of making indecent images of a child

- Four counts of publishing an obscene article via a chat application

Lancashire appeared before Hatfield Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 17 September and was remanded into custody. She is due to appear at St Albans Crown Court on Wednesday 15 October.

Detective Chief Inspector James Howarth from Hertfordshire Constabulary’s Public Protection Command, said: “We recognise that this news will be deeply distressing for many people in the community. Please be assured that this investigation is being handled with the utmost seriousness and sensitivity. We are working closely with the nursery involved and will be contacting parents and guardians directly as part of our enquiries.

“Hertfordshire Constabulary is firmly committed to conducting all investigations to the highest standards of professionalism. The safety and wellbeing of children remains our absolute priority, and we are dedicating resources to ensure every aspect of this case is managed with care and diligence.

“We ask the public to avoid speculation or sharing information online, as this could jeopardise the integrity of the investigation and any future court proceedings.”