Serious Sexual Assault – Police Hunt for Suspect

Published on: 25 May, 2012
Updated on: 25 May, 2012

Were you in Guildford High Street or Eastgate Gardens around 11pm last night (23 May)?

A serious sexual assault, involving a woman in her early twenties, was committed in Guildford last night (Thursday, 24 May). Local detectives are making an urgent appeal to members of the public for information.

The 24-year-old victim was walking alone on the High Street at around 11pm, when she was approached by an unknown man and offered a lift.

The pair then walked towards Eastgate Gardens and got into a car, which was parked outside McDonald’s.

The suspect is described as white, 5ft 9” tall, of a stocky build and with short dark hair, which was curly on top. He was wearing jeans and a light green shirt.

Earlier the same offender followed another lone woman in the same vicinity on the High Street.

Detective Chief Inspector Claire Pridgeon investigating said: “We are still in the early stages of the investigation and we need information to help us piece together exactly what has happened. I am keen to speak to anyone who may have seen anything which relates to this incident.

“Maybe it was you who was followed by this suspect as you walked down the High Street? Or perhaps you have been approached by this man in Guildford or elsewhere in Surrey and thought it was strange.

“Do you remember seeing a ‘newish’ dark car outside McDonald’s or driving nearby at the time of the incident? If you have any details which could help locate this suspect please call Surrey Police as a matter of urgency.”

Temporary Neighbourhood Inspector Amy Buffoni said offences of this nature are very rare in the town and that whilst it remains a safe environment, it is advisable for women and girls to remain vigilant about their personal safety.

She explained: “I would recommend that sensible precautions are taken by young women when they are out in Guildford. When planning a night out, think about how you are going to get home, plan ahead and book a taxi or agree who is going to drive. If you are walking, don’t go alone; avoid using a personal music player or mobile phone and be aware of your surroundings and strangers. Do not get into an unknown vehicle or accept a lift from a stranger.

“There will be increased patrols in the area providing visible reassurance and Neighbourhood officers will be speaking with as many local businesses and residents as possible, to ensure we are doing everything we can to identify the suspect.”

Anyone with information should call Surrey Police promptly on 101, quoting reference GD/12/4667. Alternatively call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.