Police appeal for information following sexual assault in Southampton

Police in Southampton have issued an appeal for information in connection with a sexual assault that took place on Saturday, (11 March). A 19 year old woman was reportedly assaulted in Hoglands Park at around 1:30am by a man she did not know.

According to reports, the man approached the woman and engaged her in conversation before assaulting her over her clothing. The woman reported the incident to the police, and officers have been following up several lines of inquiry since the incident took place.

Now, they are appealing to the public for information about the man seen in the images released. Police believe he may have valuable information about the incident and are urging anyone who recognises him to come forward.

Detective Inspector Joanne Beresford spoke about the investigation, saying, “Since the incident happened, our officers have been following up several lines of enquiry and now we are turning to you, the public, for your help. We believe the man in these images has valuable information which could aid our investigation, so we ask him to get in contact with us. If you know who he is, or saw him on the evening (10 March) in the city centre or elsewhere in Southampton, we also want to hear from you.”

On Sunday, a 27 year old man was arrested on suspicion of sexual assault, but he has since been released on bail while inquiries continue.

Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact the police on 101, quoting reference number 44230097892. Alternatively, information can be submitted online via the police website or anonymously through the independent charity Crimestoppers.