07/01/2011

Appeal Following Richmond Sex Attack

Detectives from the Met's Sapphire Unit at Kingston are appealing for information following a sexual assault on New Year’s Day.

At around 6.20am the 34 year-old female victim was walking in Richmond Road from a house party when a male approached her and attempted to strike up a conversation.

When she reached Wittering Close she told him to leave her alone at which point he grabbed her, pushing her down onto a grassed area and sexually assaulted her.

An off duty police officer, cycling to work, heard screams coming from Wittering Close and went to investigate. He discovered the victim on the ground struggling with the suspect. The officer pulled him off the victim and he ran off. The officer gave chase and attempted to restrain the suspect but he managed to break free and run off towards the River.

The suspect is described as white, 6' tall, aged between 24-28yrs, medium build with fair hair. He was wearing light blue jeans and a dark top. He also had an earring in his ear.

Detective Constable Michael Nelson, officer in charge of the investigation said: "I am convinced that if the off duty police officer had not interrupted this attack the circumstances would have been much worse. I would appeal to anyone with information to please come forward.”

(BMcN)

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