Hampshire Police have released CCTV footage of a man they urgently wish to speak to after two girls, aged just 12 and 13, were sexually assaulted outside a McDonald’s restaurant in Southampton.
The disturbing incident occurred in May outside the fast food restaurant on Shirley High Street, with officers launching an extensive investigation that has continued for several months. Police are now appealing to the public for help in identifying a suspect after exhausting other lines of enquiry.
According to Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, a man approached the two young victims whilst they were sitting on a bench outside the McDonald’s and made inappropriate comments before sexually assaulting them.
Details of the Assault
The attack unfolded when the suspect approached the two girls who were sitting outside the restaurant on Shirley High Street. Police reports indicate the man made an inappropriate comment to the youngsters before placing his hands on their legs in what officers are treating as a sexual assault.
When the terrified girls attempted to leave the area to escape their attacker, the suspect followed them, compounding their fear and distress. The brazen nature of the assault – occurring in broad daylight outside a busy fast food restaurant – has heightened concerns about child safety in the area.
Officers raced to the scene after receiving reports of the sexual assault, but despite an immediate response, the suspect had fled the area. The incident has left the local community shocked and parents increasingly concerned about their children’s safety in what should be a bustling, safe high street environment.
Suspect Description
Hampshire Police have provided a detailed description of the suspect based on witness accounts and CCTV analysis. The individual who assaulted the girls is described as:
- White male
- Aged between 40 and 50 years old
- Short grey/brown hair
- Beard
- Visible scar on his face
At the time of the assault, the suspect was wearing:
- Blue jeans
- A darker denim jacket
- A green polo top
- Black trainers
This detailed description, combined with the CCTV image now released, represents the police’s best opportunity to identify and apprehend the suspect after months of investigation.
Ongoing Investigation
The assault took place in May, and officers have been working tirelessly to track down the suspect ever since. The decision to release the CCTV image publicly indicates that police have exhausted other investigative avenues and are now turning to the public for assistance.
As part of their ongoing enquiries, detectives have conducted extensive CCTV reviews of the area, interviewed witnesses, and followed up on various leads. The release of this image represents a significant development in the case, with police hoping someone will recognise the individual and come forward with information.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary stated: “If you recognise this man, or have any information that could help our investigation, please call 101 quoting reference number 44250203891.”
Community Impact and Concerns
The assault has sent shockwaves through the Southampton community, particularly among parents and those who frequent the Shirley High Street area. The location – outside a popular family restaurant during daytime hours – has heightened anxiety about children’s safety in public spaces.
Shirley High Street, a busy shopping area in Southampton, has recently been the focus of increased police attention due to anti-social behaviour concerns. Hampshire Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones recently met with local businesses to address issues of youth disorder in the area, with plans for increased CCTV coverage and security patrols.
This sexual assault case adds another dimension to safety concerns in the area, with parents now worried about predatory behaviour targeting young children in what should be safe, public spaces.
Police Response and Child Protection
Hampshire Constabulary takes reports of sexual offences against children extremely seriously, with specialist teams dedicated to investigating such crimes. The force’s approach to child sexual assault cases involves specially trained officers who are experienced in dealing with young victims sensitively whilst gathering crucial evidence.
The investigation would have involved specialist detectives from units trained in child protection and sexual offences. These officers are skilled in interviewing young victims in a way that minimises further trauma whilst obtaining the detailed information necessary for prosecution.
The lengthy investigation period – from May to the current date – demonstrates the thoroughness with which police approach such serious cases. Every avenue must be explored, every piece of CCTV footage examined, and every potential witness interviewed before making a public appeal.
Support for Victims
Whilst police have not released specific details about the welfare of the two young victims, standard procedure in such cases involves immediate safeguarding measures and ongoing support. Child victims of sexual assault are typically offered access to specialist support services, including:
- Specially trained officers to take statements in child-friendly environments
- Referrals to counselling and therapeutic services
- Support through any potential court proceedings
- Liaison with schools and social services to ensure ongoing welfare
The age of the victims – just 12 and 13 years old – makes this case particularly disturbing and underscores the vulnerability of children in public spaces.
Legal Context
Sexual assault of children under 13 is treated as an extremely serious offence under UK law. The Sexual Offences Act 2003 provides specific protections for children, with any sexual touching of a child under 13 automatically considered an offence regardless of perceived consent.
The suspect, when identified and apprehended, could face significant criminal charges including:
- Sexual assault of a child under 13
- Multiple counts given there were two victims
- Potential additional charges related to following the victims
Such offences carry substantial prison sentences, reflecting society’s determination to protect children from sexual predators.
Public Appeal and Community Response
The release of the CCTV image represents a crucial moment in the investigation. Police are relying on members of the public who may recognise the individual from his distinctive appearance, particularly the visible facial scar mentioned in the description.
Anyone who recognises the man in the image, or who has any information about the incident, is urged to contact Hampshire Police immediately on 101, quoting reference number 44250203891. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
The police emphasise that even seemingly minor details could prove crucial to the investigation. This might include:
- Sightings of the suspect in the area before or after the incident
- Any similar approaches or inappropriate behaviour witnessed
- Information about the suspect’s identity or whereabouts
- CCTV or dashcam footage from the area on the day in question
Wider Safety Concerns
This incident occurs against a backdrop of increasing concerns about child safety in public spaces. Recent statistics show that reports of child sexual offences have been rising, though this may partly reflect increased awareness and willingness to report such crimes.
Parents and guardians are reminded of the importance of:
- Teaching children about personal safety and inappropriate touching
- Ensuring children know how to seek help if approached inappropriately
- Maintaining awareness of children’s whereabouts and companions
- Encouraging open communication about any concerning incidents
Moving Forward
As the investigation continues, the priority remains identifying and apprehending the suspect to ensure he cannot pose a threat to other children. The case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance in protecting young people from predatory behaviour.
The release of the CCTV image marks a significant step in the investigation, with police hopeful that public assistance will lead to a breakthrough. The distinctive features described – particularly the facial scar – should make identification more likely if the suspect is known to anyone in the community.
Hampshire Police have assured the public that they will continue to pursue all leads in this case until the perpetrator is brought to justice. The safety of children in Southampton remains a top priority, with increased patrols and CCTV coverage being implemented across key areas.
Anyone with information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, is urged to come forward immediately. The reference number for this case is 44250203891, and Hampshire Police can be contacted on 101. In an emergency, always dial 999.
The community’s response to this appeal could prove crucial in ensuring that the person responsible for this disturbing attack on two young girls is identified and faces justice for their actions.
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