Investigation launched after Watford assault against teenager
An 18-year-old woman was grabbed by a man while walking with friends late on Friday
Hertfordshire Police have confirmed they are investigating an assault which occurred in Watford town centre on Friday 8 October.
An 18 year old woman and her friends were walking in the High Street at around when she was approached by a man.
He grabbed her arm and tried to engage her in conversation before the victim pulled away.
She and her friends informed police officers a short time later. The victim was safeguarded, a crime report was recorded and an investigation has been launched.
Watford Chief Inspector Ian Grout said: “We have already carried out extensive enquiries into this incident, including a review of CCTV.
“The victim and her friends did the right thing by approaching our officers, who were monitoring the town centre on what was a very busy evening.
“Since the incident we have also made contact with the victim again and will be speaking to her at length in due course.
“A person of interest has been identified as part of the investigation and we have plans to speak to them in connection with this incident.
“We completely understand that following the horrific murder of Sarah Everard, the community’s trust in the police has been severely damaged.
“We know we have to work hard to rebuild that trust and we’d like to reassure residents and visitors that we are currently reviewing our strategy around VAWG to ensure we are doing all we can to protect women and girls in Watford.
“We are aware of speculation about this incident on social media and while we appreciate that news of the incident will be concerning, we ask commenters to refrain from discussing the details of a live investigation on a public forum.
“If you have any information about this incident, please contact us quoting reference 41/78466/21.”