UPDATED: Police are investigating a report that a 14-year-old boy was inappropriately touched over his clothing by a man he did not know in Newport yesterday (Wednesday).
The teenager was on St James Street at around 15:40 when the assault happened.
Detectives have released an image of a man who was in the area at the time and who may be able to help them establish what happened.
The photograph is believed to have come from a separate incident nearby, where it is alleged the male pictured tried to ‘run off’ with a young girl. Members of the public assisted, he escaped.
(Police have since requested that the photograph is no longer circulated as the investigation has ‘moved on’).
The individual is described as:
– Asian or Indian.
– Dark hair with flecks of grey
– A chubby face
– Aged in his 30s or 40s
– Wearing yellow jeans or chinos and a dark blue Adidas top
He was last seen heading towards St George’s football ground.
Investigating officer DC Lee Torrance has said:
“Did you speak to this man or see him in the area at the time? We believe he may be able to help us establish what happened.
“Enquiries including reviewing CCTV are ongoing and our Neighbourhood Policing Team has increased patrols following this incident”.
Anyone with any information relating to this case is asked to call Police on 101 quoting reference ‘44170226395’, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
UPDATE @ 17:10 – Police have arrested a 36-year-old man in connection with the alleged incident, although it is unclear if the man photographed is the same man that has been detained.
Several Island Echo readers got in touch to say the man is thought to work at a Newport business. The information was passed onto Police prior to the arrest.
The 36-year-old remains in custody at Newport Police Station at this time.
UPDATE FRIDAY @ 10:55 – A 36-year-old man has been charged and will appear before the Isle of Wight Magistrates Court this morning, where he is expected to be remanded in custody.
https://www.islandecho.co.uk/news/36-year-old-man-charged-sexual-assault
