CCTV released in connection with sexual assault in Gloucester

Officers investigating a sexual assault in Gloucester have issued CCTV images in hope of tracing the offender.

The incident happened at around 2am on Saturday 2 July at the junction of Market Parade and Clarence Street. The victim, a 19-year-old woman, was walking along Eastgate Street when she was approached by a man who asked her for directions. He walked with her until they reached the junction and then pushed her against a wall and sexually assaulted her. The victim shouted before the offender then walked off.

He is described as black, in his 30s, of a medium build, around 5 foot 6 in height and was wearing a Barbour jacket.

Police are eager to speak to the man in the image in connection with the incident. Images have also been released of two men he was in company with that night.

DC Austin Parry, the investigating officer, said: “We have trawled CCTV and established that the three men attended several bars in the city centre on the evening of Friday 1 July. They frequented the Regal, Butlers, Zest and Liquid.

“The images we have decided to release see the men entering the Regal at around 11pm. We particularly want to speak to the man alone in the image, but his associates in the other photo, may also be able to assist us with our enquiries.

“I urge themselves, or anyone else who recognises them, to call police on 101 quoting incident 344 of 2 July.

“We take reports of sexual offences very seriously and we hope our proactive approach to trace the man responsible indicates this.”

You can also contact the independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or through their Anonymous Online Form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org. No personal details are taken, information cannot be traced or recorded and you will not go to court.

Gloucester News Centre – http://gloucesternewscentre.co.uk