Appeal following attempted rape in Portsmouth

Sometime between 2.15am and 2.40am a student was followed along Park Road, Anglesea Road, King Richard I Road and into the alleyway by James Watson Halls, which leads to White Swan Road.

Once in the alleyway by James Watson Halls, the victim was grabbed by the wrist and pulled to the floor by the suspect, who had undone his trousers and exposed himself.

The victim managed to get up and ran to King Richard I Road, while the suspect ran off towards White Swan Road.

Did you see someone being followed? The victim is 5’ 10” tall, of medium build and was wearing a short skirt, knee high socks and trainers. The suspect is described as a white man, 6’ tall and was wearing baggy clothing, including a hoody, which was unzipped and showed a dark-coloured t-shirt underneath with light-coloured writing or logo across the chest.

Detective Sergeant Mark Alleman said: “Fortunately this type of incident is not common and is not being linked to any other incidents.

“We’d like to take this opportunity to urge students and other members of the public to not walk home alone late at night or in the early hours and to where possible walk with friends or use public transport or a taxi to get home.

“In an emergency, or if a crime is in progress call 999”

Our advice to people who are out at night is to stay alert and:

• plan how you are going to get home
• never walk home on your own, walk with friends or call a taxi
• stay with your friends, you are more likely to be a target on your own
• if you must walk alone, avoid shortcuts and stick to well-lit, busy areas and consider places of safety along your route, such as a friend’s house or shops, where you could seek help if necessary
• keep your mobile phone charged
• have your house keys ready before you reach the door
• try not to drink too much
• make sure someone knows where you are and when to expect you bac