Police appeal after young woman was sexually assaulted in the St Austell area

Officers say she was put into a car but managed to escape in a lay-by

Author: Sarah YeomanPublished 24th Dec 2021

Police have issued an appeal following a report of a sexual assault on a woman in the St Austell area.

Officers were called around 9.55pm on Thursday night (23rd December) after the victim was located in a layby just outside the village of Pentewan by a member of the public.

The victim reported that she had been assaulted by two men who approached her in a car, believed to be silver-coloured, in the Bethel area of the town around 9pm.

The men claimed they were food delivery drivers and asked her for directions before they put her into the vehicle and assaulted her as they drove around.

The woman, in her 20s, managed to escape the vehicle in the layby. She is currently being supported by specialist officers.

Detectives are investigating the incident and carrying out house-to-house and CCTV enquiries.

They are seeking the suspects who are described as of dual heritage, in their 20s or 30s and of average height and build.

One was wearing a blue Adidas jumper and black jeans; the other man was dressed in a white T-shirt and black jeans.

They are appealing for witnesses and would like to speak with anyone who may have seen the men in the silver vehicle in the area between 9pm and 10pm.

Detective Superintendent Ben Beckerleg said: “We are keen to hear from anyone who may have seen the men driving around the Bethel area and Pentewan Road last night. We would also like to speak with anyone who recognises the description of the men or who has any information which may assist with our enquiries.”

If you can assist with any information please contact police on 101@dc.police.uk or by telephone on 101, quoting log number 0922 of 23/12/21.

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