Fareham man arrested after park assault

HAMPSHIRE POLICE have announced the arrest of an unnamed man from Fareham in connection with an alleged sexual assault that occurred within the vicinity of Portsmouth’s Victoria Park last Friday (September 16); as officers continue their preliminary investigations after being alerted to the incident later that afternoon.

It was reported the victim, a 20-year-old woman, was walking through the popular park area at approximately 1.40pm (Friday) when an unknown male approached her from behind before grabbing and then indecently assaulting her. She managed to get away and is currently being supported by specialist officers at this time.

And following investigations police confirmed on Tuesday (September 20) they have arrested a 57-year-old man from Fareham on suspicion of sexual assault. A statement added that he has since been released from police custody but remains under investigation whilst their enquiries continue in the coming days and weeks.

However investigators would still like to hear from anyone who saw anything suspicious in the park or nearby at around the time specified above or anyone who witnessed the incident. It has been reported the area was fairly busy due to people enjoying their lunches in the park or socialising before the Bank Holiday weekend.

Anyone with information or footage is asked to contact police by calling the non-emergency number 101 and quote the case’s reference number 44220378047. They can also submit any detail using the online reporting tool available on the Hampshire Police website, with accessible support and guidance pages available here.

Alternatively, readers can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously by calling 0800 555 111, or via their anonymous online form which can be found through their website: https://orlo.uk/250kR.

PICTURED BY HAMPSHIRE POLICE: Graphic outlining any confirmed arrest from designated investigators.