Woman jailed after reporting serious offences to police which weren’t true
12/05/2026
She had even threatened children to lie to the police
A Banbury woman has been jailed for perverting the course of justice after she told police a serious offence had taken place – a claim that was later found to be untrue.
Thirty-three year old Marilyn Kennedy of Griffiths Road even threatened the children involved in the claim to lie to police.
On June 8, 2024 at around 9.55pm, Kennedy had called 999 reporting that she had been punched in the face by an individual who she named. She also claimed the individual had kidnapped two children.
Three people were arrested in connection with the report, but following a protracted and complex investigation by Thames Valley Police, it became clear that Kennedy’s account was false.
At Oxford Crown Court on Friday (May 8) Kennedy was sentenced to one year in prison.
Investigating officer Detective Constable Bryn Smith said: “Kennedy’s actions were deliberate and sustained. She not only made a false report of a serious offence, but went as far as threatening the children involved to lie to police.
“This report prompted a large-scale response, involving more than 20 officers, and caused significant strain on policing resources and partner agencies. It also led to widespread fear and anxiety in the community, which required ongoing reassurance patrols.
“Even when presented with clear and overwhelming evidence, she continued to maintain this account for over 18 months, wrongly accusing innocent people and significantly hindering the investigation. Because of her actions, three individuals spent many hours in custody and remained under suspicion for weeks, despite having done nothing wrong.
“The impact of Kennedy’s behaviour has been far-reaching, affecting those falsely accused, the wider public and partner agencies. It is right that she now faces a custodial sentence for the serious harm caused.”
Published: by the Banbury FM News Team
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