Police have released CCTV footage of a man they urgently need to identify following a sexual assault on a teenager in Bristol city centre.
Cops have released CCTV of the person they wish to speak to following the incident in St James’ Park, Bristol, at 10pm on Saturday, August 16. The alleged offender is described as a man in his 30s, believed to be of Asian heritage and around 5ft 4-6ins tall.
He was said to be wearing black clothing and in possession of a black rucksack at the time.
Investigation Launches Public Appeal
An investigation was launched after the incident was reported – with CCTV, social media and forensic enquires being carried out, as well witness statements being taken.
Officers involved are following lines of enquiry and remain in contact with victim, who has been referred to a number of services which support people who have suffered sexual violence and abuse.
Detective Constable Channon Dayus, who is leading the investigation, addressed the devastating impact on the victim and family. “This is an awful incident which has caused distress and upset for the victim and her family,” she said.
Community Reassurance Amid Investigation
DC Dayus sought to reassure the local community whilst emphasising the seriousness of the investigation. “We would like to assure the community that while we have not received any similar reports involving other victims, one incident is too many and a full investigation is underway.”
The decision to release the CCTV image publicly comes after extensive investigative work failed to identify the suspect through other means.
“The CCTV enquiries we have carried out since this awful sexual assault have resulted in us wishing to identify the man, pictured,” explained DC Dayus.
Public Support Crucial to Investigation
The detective constable acknowledged the sensitive nature of publicising sexual assault cases but stressed the necessity of the appeal.
“We are always conscious of the impact publicity of such offences can have on victims, but we’ve not been able to identify this man ourselves and therefore we now are seeking the public’s support because finding out who this man in will help us to progress this investigation.”
The CCTV image shows a man police hope the public can help identify as they would like to speak to him in connection with their enquiries.
Call for Information
Police are now appealing for anybody who recognises the man in the image to come forward urgently to assist with the investigation.
Members of the public with any information about the incident or who recognise the man pictured should contact police immediately.
The investigation remains ongoing as detectives work to identify and locate the suspect two months after the reported assault.
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