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Detectives in Bournemouth are appealing for information from the public after a number of sexual incidents involving women that have occurred in north Bournemouth - with police linking the incidents. Between Sunday 29 June 2008 and Friday 22 August 2008, women have reported eight incidents of a sexual nature, all of which have occurred in the Poole Lane area of West Howe in Bournemouth. The investigating officer, Detective Constable Steve Sutton of Bournemouth CID, said: "The incidents have mainly taken place between 5pm and 7pm, but with one being as late as midnight - and almost exclusively on weekdays. "The incidents have varied from inappropriate sexual comments making victims feel most uncomfortable to actual assaults involving inappropriate sexual touching over the victim's clothing. "All the female victims have been walking alone at the time of the incidents - and it's important to note that none of the victims have been physically injured by the man - but all have been left shocked and upset by his actions. "I suspect that the same man may be responsible for each of these incidents. I'm committed to finding this man and I need the public's help to do so." The man police are looking for is white, five feet four to six feet tall, between 20 and 35 years of age and of thin to medium build, clean shaven with shaved or very short dark hair and prominent dark eyebrows. He is described as having discoloured teeth and a local accent and being of scruffy appearance, possibly wearing a dark coloured hooded top or tracksuit. Detective Constable Sutton continued: "The man was riding a bicycle on one occasion, but on each of the other occasions he was on foot. "I need to identify this man and it may be that a friend or acquaintance of the man responsible is aware of his actions I urge anyone who knows, or suspects that they know this man, to contact the police. "I'd also like to hear from anyone else who may have been a victim of a similar incident and who may not yet have reported this to the police. It may be that information you have will help me identify this man." North Bournemouth Section Commander, Inspector Mike Claxton, said: "Dorset Police is taking these incidents very seriously and such criminal behaviour is unacceptable. "To have a number of incidents in one area is most unusual and I have ensured that increased visible patrols in the area have been carried out - and will continue to be carried out. The safety of the public is paramount. "We would always advise women walking alone to take sensible precautions such as being alert, vigilant but not alarmed, and to only walk alone if it's essential to do so." Further safety advice for women can be found at: http://www.suzylamplugh.org/content.asp?PageID=1086 Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 01202 or 01305 22 22 22 or the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply. Ref: Dorset Police Force |
