Man charged with sexual assault in Birkenhead

A man has been charged following a report of sexual assault on Chester Road In Birkenhead.

At around 3.10pm on Friday 31 May it was reported that a woman was walking in the area of the Rock Retail Park when she noticed a man walking behind her who then sexually assaulted her.

Patrols attended the area of Rock Retail Park and spotted a man and who was described as the suspect.

68-year-old Brian Halfhead of Cross Street in Birkenhead was charged with sexual assault.

He was remanded into custody and appeared at Wiral Adult Remand Court this morning (Monday 3 June).

Detective Inspector Peter Rexwinkel said: “We take all reports of sexual offences very seriously and our specialist officers who are trained to thoroughly investigate these kinds of allegations, will support anyone who comes forward to speak to us.

“Anyone who wants to make a report or is concerned for the safety of someone they care for or know should come forward and speak to our team.

“We will listen to you and treat you with the utmost sensitivity and compassion. There are also a number of reliable and trusted organisations and charities who will support you from your initial report, throughout any investigation and beyond.”

Anyone reporting a sexual offence is asked to call 101 where you will be spoken to by specially trained officers or you can pass information to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

For women who have felt or feel unsafe in public spaces the Home Office has set up a pilot service (StreetSafe | Police.uk (www.police.uk) for anyone to anonymously report public places where they have felt or feel unsafe, because of environmental issues, eg street lighting, abandoned buildings or vandalism and/or because of some behaviours, eg being followed or verbally abused.

Please note: 'StreetSafe' is not for reporting crime or incidents.

If something has happened to you or someone you know (including in public spaces online) you can call us on 101 or find out what online reporting services are available at StreetSafe | Police.uk (www.police.uk).