Cleveland Police have launched a CCTV appeal after a woman was sexually assaulted inside a B&M store at Middleton Grange Shopping Centre in Hartlepool. The incident occurred in broad daylight at approximately 3:35pm on Saturday, June 13.
Details of the assault
The victim was allegedly approached from behind and touched inappropriately by a man. Police have released a still image from CCTV footage showing a man they wish to speak to, who is believed to have information that could assist the investigation. The man is pictured wearing a suit and dark tie, ascending an escalator at the shopping centre, which attracts around 85,000 visitors each week. He is holding an unknown object in his hands, and it is not yet clear whether he is a store employee or a shopper.
Police investigation and appeal
Officers have reviewed CCTV footage as part of the ongoing investigation. Anyone who recognises the man is urged to contact Cleveland Police by calling 101 or reporting details online, quoting reference number 114117. The shopping centre and B&M have been contacted for comment.
Broader context of sexual assault in the UK
According to the Office for National Statistics, approximately three per cent of women in the UK report being sexually assaulted each year, equating to around 739,000 incidents. This case highlights the ongoing issue of public sexual offences.
