Thames Valley Police have released a CCTV image of a man they wish to speak to after a teenage boy was allegedly sexually assaulted inside a Sainsbury’s store in Wantage, Oxfordshire, in an incident under investigation.
A teenage boy was allegedly sexually assaulted by a man inside a Sainsbury’s store in Wantage, Oxfordshire, on Saturday, 25 July, police have said. Thames Valley Police said the boy, who is in his teens, was approached and touched over his clothing at around 3pm during the alleged incident. Officers have since released a CCTV image of a man they wish to identify as part of their enquiries. The force has appealed for anyone who recognises him, or who has information about the incident, to come forward.
Details of the alleged incident
According to Thames Valley Police, the alleged assault took place inside the Wantage branch of Sainsbury’s at approximately 3pm on Saturday, 25 July. The teenage victim was approached by a man who sexually touched him over his clothing, officers said.
Wantage is a market town in Oxfordshire policed by Thames Valley Police, which also covers Berkshire and Buckinghamshire. Local crime data indicates that violence and sexual offences are the most commonly recorded category of crime in the Wantage and Grove policing area.
CCTV appeal issued
Investigating officer Police Constable Jasmine Moore has released a CCTV image of a man in connection with the incident, though he has not been identified as a suspect at this stage. PC Moore said: “I am releasing a CCTV image of a man who may have information that could assist our investigation. If you are the man pictured, know who he is, or have any information about this incident, please contact Thames Valley Police as soon as possible.”
She added: “You can visit a police station, call 101, or make a report via our website, quoting reference number 43260393059.”
Releasing CCTV images in this way is standard investigative practice for Thames Valley Police in sexual offence cases where officers believe an individual may hold information relevant to their enquiries but has not yet been identified.
The legal position
Under UK law, touching someone sexually over their clothing without their consent can constitute sexual assault, provided the touching is sexual in nature and the person carrying it out does not reasonably believe consent has been given.
How to get in touch
Thames Valley Police have asked anyone with information about the incident, or anyone who recognises the man in the released CCTV image, to come forward. Reports can be made by calling 101, visiting a police station in person, or submitting a report via the force’s website, quoting crime reference number 43260393059.
