A 43-year-old man has been arrested following the circulation of an appeal last night (7 August 2024) relating to sexual assaults in the Middleton area of Leeds.
He remains in custody today while enquiries continue.
Police issued a still from CCTV footage in the appeal the Leeds District Safeguarding Unit said they would like to speak with anyone who knows or has information about the man pictured as they investigate reported sexual assaults on young females in the Thorpe and Middleton areas.
Officers were conducting multiple enquiries in the Thorpe area on Wednesday evening after receiving reports of four young females being approached by a man on a scooter. The reported incidents took place on Tuesday (6 August) and Thursday (7 August).
Victims were approached by a man on a scooter who, in some cases, engaged them in conversation about the bike before offending against them. None of the girls were physically hurt but all were very distressed by what occurred. They and their families are being supported by specially trained officers.
The suspect is described as white, in his 30’s or 40s and had a black and orange electric scooter.
Detective Superintendent Emma Winfield of West Yorkshire Police, said:
“These incidents are clearly of real concern and I want to reassure parents that a significant investigation is ongoing into these offences.
“We are working to support victims and families and have deployed a number of officers to the Thorpe and Middleton areas to conduct enquiries and extra patrols.
“It is very important we locate the man pictured. I would urge anyone who knows or recognises the man in the image or who has footage of him to contact the Leeds District Safeguarding Unit on 999 or online at www.westyorkshire.police.uk/livechat referencing crime number 13240429332
“Information can also be given to the independent Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.”
This post is based on press releases issued by West Yorkshire Police
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