Reports of man "inappropriately touching" women in quiet town in Cornwall
Police are investigating a series of alleged sexual assaults in Lostwithiel
Last updated 29th Sep 2022
Police in Cornwall are investigating a series of reports of a man "inappropriately touching" several women in broad daylight.
Officers say the women, of different ages, were approached in various areas of Lostwithiel.
The suspect is believed to be in his late teens and while police are reassuring people that the town remains a safe place to live, they have issued an appeal for information.
Police Statement
A force spokesperson said: "Police investigating a series of incidents in Lostwithiel, Cornwall, are appealing for any witnesses to come forward.
"Officers have received four reports of a man approaching females of different ages and inappropriately touching their bottoms.
"The incidents took place in Lostwithiel in various locations on Monday 19th September at around 6pm, on Wednesday 21st September at 5.50pm and on Sunday 25th September, between 1.30pm and 3.30pm.
"The suspect has been described as being a white male, around 5ft 9ins tall, with short brown hair, of thin build, with a pale face and usually wearing dark clothing. He is thought to be in his late teens.
St Austell Inspector Ian Jolliff said: "We are in the process of carrying out a full and thorough investigation into these incidents and we are appealing for anyone who may have witnessed anything which may assist our investigation to please contact us.
"Officers have carried out CCTV checks, liaised with the local schools and businesses and extra patrols are being carried out in the area.
"I would also like to reassure the public that incidents such as these are rare and Lostwithiel is a safe place to live".
Witness Appeal
If you witnessed the incident or have any information or dashcam footage that could help with enquiries, please contact police via their website or by calling 101 quoting crime reference CR/089019/22.
Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling freephone 0800 555111.