A 22-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of rape following a serious sexual assault on a teenage girl in Bristol. Avon and Somerset Police confirmed the arrest as part of an ongoing investigation into the incident, which allegedly occurred in the Portland Square area at approximately 3.30am on Saturday, June 20.
The victim, described as being in her mid-teens, has been offered access to support services. Police conducted CCTV enquiries and issued a public appeal for information earlier this week, leading to the arrest on Thursday afternoon. The suspect remains in police custody.
Police Urge Public to Come Forward
Anyone with information that could aid the investigation is urged to call 101 quoting reference 5226169935 or complete an online appeals form. Avon and Somerset Police emphasized that the victim is being supported and that the investigation is ongoing.
Separate Sexual Assault in Bournemouth
In a separate incident, a woman in her 40s was sexually assaulted while swimming at Bournemouth beach on Sunday, July 12, at around 6pm. According to Dorset Police, a man swam up to a family group and touched the woman over her clothing. The suspect is described as of Indian descent, about five feet six inches tall, with black hair and a small stubbly beard, wearing a white T-shirt and black shorts.
A 35-year-old man from London was arrested on suspicion of sexual assault and has been released on conditional bail. Police Constable Matthew McGuinness of Dorset Police said: "We believe that there were independent witnesses that saw the incident and I am appealing for them to please contact us as this could assist our investigation."
Anyone with information is urged to contact Dorset Police online or by dialling 101, quoting occurrence number 55260105198. Alternatively, the independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.
