CCTV appeal following sexual assault in Liverpool City Centre

Detectives are issuing images of a man who may have information following a sexual assault in Liverpool City Centre last month.
 
At around 2.10am on Thursday 2 September, a woman in her 20s was walking along Seel Street towards Hanover Street when she was approached by a man who asked for directions and began talking to her. He sexually assaulted her at the junction of College Lane and Manestys Lane before walking off. 
 
The victim reported the incident the following day and extensive enquiries have been ongoing.
 
Detective Constable Rachael Barcas said: “We think the man pictured may have information to assist our investigation so I’d encourage him or anyone who knows him to come forward with reference 21000613831.
 
“We’re supporting the victim of this distressing offence and are determined to find the person responsible and put them before the courts. Nobody should feel unsafe walking the streets, and no person should feel they can approach or follow someone down the street, let alone assault them. We’re working hard with partners to investigate all such incidents and support victims, and would welcome any information.

“Taking those first steps to report a sexual offence can be daunting and there are many reasons why people find it hard to do, but there is support available, not just from the police, but other organisations too.

“I would reassure anyone who has suffered a sexual offence that you will be treated with care, sensitivity and professionalism throughout the investigative and criminal justice process and beyond.
 
“I would encourage anyone who has been a victim of a sexual offence to come forward and report it. There is no time limit for reporting this type of crime and we take every report extremely seriously. We have specially trained officers who will speak to you and support you through any investigation or criminal proceedings and can help you get any further help you may need.”

This short video explains the process that someone can expect to go through should they report a sexual offence. 

Anyone who wishes to make a report should contact @MerPolCC, 101 or @CrimestoppersUK, anonymously on 0800 555 111

If someone is in immediate danger they should dial 999 and speak to an operator but we also accept that openly speaking is not always an option.

The Silent Solution is a service which means a vulnerable person can call 999 and alert us, by pressing ’55.’ This will indicate that help is needed and we will respond.