UPDATED: Detectives investigating 2 separate incidents of a male ‘approaching’ young teenage girls in East Cowes and Freshwater have arrested a 58-year-old man on suspicion of sexual assault.
As first reported by Island Echo during the early hours of Sunday, Police issued a public safety appeal after at least 3 young girls were approached by a man who is said to have had ‘sexual motives’.
At the time Police said the man had approached the girls involved but released little detail, however Island Echo understands from 1 of the victims that the suspect performed a ‘search’ whilst posing as an undercover Police officer. Hampshire Constabulary confirmed this line of enquiry on Sunday night.
It has now been confirmed that the suspect has been arrested on suspicion of sexual assault. He remains in custody at Newport Police Station for questioning.
UPDATE WEDNESDAY – Police have bailed the 58-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of sexual assault on a female until 18th October.
Hampshire Constabulary are continuing to investigate both incidents and they would like to remind parents, carers and young people on the Isle of Wight to remain alert. The advice to children is always to avoid talking to strangers. A genuine police officer would always show his or her warrant card.
Detectives are still trying to trace a man and woman who they believe were walking a white dog in the cemetery on Kingston Road in East Cowes on Saturday, between 20:00-21:00. Officers believe they may have important information that could assist the investigation.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Isle of Wight Investigation Team on 101 and quote 44160313360.
