Man Arrested Over Sexual Assault

22 April 2010, 12:51 | Updated: 22 April 2010, 12:54

Detectives in Southampton investigating an indecent assault on a 17-year-old girl in the city have arrested a man in his 40s in connection with the attack.

The teenager was walking across the play park area between Redbridge Hill and Irving Road near Sturminster House yesterday evening when a man approached her and tried to engage her in conversation.

When she got to a small communal green area on Irving Road he pulled her to the ground and sexually assaulted her.

The victim managed to get away and once she got home told her parents what had happened. She has been left shocked and upset by the assault.

The attacker is described as black and of stocky build with short or shaved hair. He was wearing dark trousers and a white track suit top.

Police searching the area arrested a 44-year-old from Southampton man a short time later.

Detectives are also appealing for witnesses to the incident which happened at about 11.40pm, Wednesday, April 21. They would like to hear from anyone who saw the man following the teenager, the attack itself or anyone seen hanging around suspiciously in the area around that time.

Officers have been carrying out extra patrols in the area and house to house enquiries are also being undertaken.

Anyone with information is asked to call Shirley CID on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.