Female student sexually assaulted in Chichester
Appeal to find good Samaritan who saved 19 year old after hearing her screams
Last updated 25th Sep 2021
Police are investigating a sexual assault on a woman student who was walking home near Chichester University.
It happened around 11.30pm on Wednesday (22 September 2021).
The 19-year-old woman was grabbed by a man in College Lane, near to the entrance of Chichester University. He dragged her north for a short distance and into a wooded area on the edge of Oaklands Park where he sexually assaulted her. However her screams drew the attention of a man walking past, and the suspect ran off across Oaklands Park.
The suspect is described as white, in his twenties and 6'2", with short hair.
The woman is being supported by specially trained officers.
APPEAL TO TRACE GOOD SAMARITAN
Detective Sergeant Amanda Zinyama of the West Sussex Safeguarding Investigations Unit said:
"We are appealing for witnesses who were in the area at the time, and who may have seen the incident or seen this man in the area."
"We particularly need to trace the man who heard the victim's screams and came to her aid. He walked with her to the College nearby but then left without giving his contact details."
"If you can help in any way please contact us either online or by calling 101, quoting Operation Memphis."
POLICE TACKLING VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN
District Commander Chief Inspector Jon Carter said:
"This is an isolated though very serious incident and there have been no similar such reports in the area recently. We have increased police presence in the area, and the investigation team are working hard to identify the person responsible. If you see suspicious behaviour or are at all concerned when out and about, please contact us. In addition students are being reminded of the sensible precautions everyone can continue to take to help keep themselves safe, but the same advice is equally applicable to everyone working and living in the area, regardless of occupation."
"We are also working with many partners locally to tackle the issue of violence against women."