Barnstaple sex assault: image released

Victim attacked in early hours

Police trying to track down a sex offender in Barnstaple have released an image of a man they want to identify.

They say a serious sexual assault took place in the Gorwell Estate area of Bear Street of the between 3:15 a.m. and 3:40 a.m. on Sunday 25 September.

The latest police statement says nothing about the victim or the nature of the attack.

A 24-year-old man from Eastbourne has been arrested on suspicion of sexual assault and released on police bail.

Detective Inspector Gary Matthews said: “Whilst we have a suspect on police bail, we are keeping an open mind in relation to their potential role in this crime. Therefore, we are now releasing a police EvoFIT of a man that we wish to identify in connection to last Sunday’s sexual assault in the Bear Street area near Gorwell Estate.

“If you recognise the individual then it is vital that you reach out to us and share this information.

“Similarly, we are seeking dashcam footage from road users in that area from around 2.30 a.m. and 4 a.m. on Sunday 25 September.

“Bear Street is divided into two sections; the town side and the Gorwell Estate side, we are seeking footage from drivers who were in either area. If you have yet to have contacted the police, then we urge you to do so.”

Anyone with information which may assist police is asked to contact 101 quoting log 0152 of 30 September.

DI Matthews added: “We appreciate that as we approach the weekend and many hoping to enjoy a night out, that this appeal could cause some concern to our public; I wish to reassure you that we are doing everything we can to catch the man responsible for this attack.

“Whilst all of us should be able to walk alone and safely, no matter the time or location, we do ask that our public are extra vigilant. Please do not walk home alone and always ensure that you use a licenced taxi at the end of a night out.

“Anyone on a night out who is concerned for another member of the public being alone and vulnerable, perhaps being subjected to unwanted attention or aggression, then please immediately approach a police officer or a member of venue staff to let them know.

“We will have additional high-visibility officers on patrol to make sure that a night out in Barnstaple is a safe space for all, and our officers will be looking to identify predatory behaviour and take immediate action.”

You can also pass information in relation to this attack anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org or by phone 0800 555 111.