TWO SEXUAL ASSAULTS on young women in Dagenham’s Central Park took place on different occasions – but police believe they may well have been committed by the same man.
•Attack 1 The first attack occurred at around 11.30am on Monday, 14th September. A girl in her early teens was walking through the park when a man approached her – and then sexually assaulted her.
•Attack 2 Just one week later, on Monday, 21st September, and at the same time of around 11.30am, a slightly older teenager was sexually assaulted as she walked through the park.
The suspect is described as between 45 and 50 years old, about 5ft 5ins tall, slightly overweight – with a balding head and tanned skins. On both occasions, the man seems to have left the park after carrying out the assaults, which leads police to believe that he may have gone because members of the public were approaching – and they could be witnesses who can help identify the attacker.
Police have increased the number of patrols in the area to help the public to feel that it is safe to use the park.
Detective Constable Neil Godwin from the East Area Command Unit said, “These were frightening incidents which, understandably, left both girls very distressed and upset. Both assaults happened mid-morning, when plenty of people were around, and I would urge anyone who saw anything to get in touch. We would also ask the public to remain vigilant, but not alarmed, and to get in touch if they see anything suspicious.”
•Anyone who has any information which may assist the investigation is asked to contact police on 101, quoting reference Cad 2737/14Sep.
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