Police are hunting for a man who they believe has carried out a string of sexual assaults across Sutton this month.
The first incident happened on January 7 at around 7pm when a 34-year-old woman was walking along North Street, Carshalton, towards the Sun pub
A man then walked past and sexually assaulted her. He followed her down to a nearby park area where he grabbed at her again when the victim shouted out and the man ran off.
The next offence happened on January 9 at around 9.30pm. The suspect helped the 22-year-old victim after she stumbled at Carshalton rail station.
He walked with her to Festival Walk where he grabbed her and tried to drag her into the park area. After failing, he made off on foot.
The third assault was on the same day just minutes later. This time a woman, aged 27, was walking her dog along North Street, Carshalton, towards the Sun pub.
There she was approached by a man who tried to grab her. She had first noticed him approaching her from Honeywood Walk and following her up the road.
The man is described as of Asian appearance, in his late 20s to early 30s, of medium build and 5ft 6ins to 5ft 9ins with short dark hair.
On January 7 he was wearing a brown leather jacket, dark trousers and shoes. On January 9 he wore a striped grey top and jeans.
Detective Inspector James Carrington said: “We believe the same man to be behind all three incidents and are appealing for anyone with information or any witnesses to come forward.
“We don’t wish to alarm people but it is sensible advice to take care if you are walking alone after dark.
“Be aware of your surroundings, tell a friend or family member where you are going and avoid remote areas with poor lighting. There’s lots more crime prevention advice on the Met’s website.”
Any witnesses or anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101.
Picture courtesy of Ray Forster, with thanks
