Search for sex offender continues

Police are investigating two recently reported sexual assaults that they believe might be linked to three other sexual assaults.

On Friday 11 October, a woman in her fifties was assaulted by a man who kissed her violently on the mouth at the bottom of an alley called The Avenue which runs between Old Steine and East Street. The incident took place just after 9pm.

The suspect is described as black, early 20’s, about 6ft wearing a short light jacket.

On Sunday 20 October at around 01:00, a 20 year old woman was sexually assaulted over her clothing by a man on Kings Road near the Odeon.

The man is described as 5’10”, mid-30’s, tanned or dark complexion, dark hair and wearing a white tracksuit top.

On both occasions the man tried to engage the women in conversation.

These assaults have been linked by police to three other assaults due to similarities with regards to the description of the male and the methods used by him.

Police are appealing for any information which might help identify the male. It is hoped that someone may have witnessed these assaults as they both took place at times when the city centre would have been busy.

CCTV of the suspect was released by police earlier this month but police have now released further moving images they hope will jog people’s memories.

If you have any information you can contact police by calling 101 and or online by quoting Operation Downgate.

Detective Inspector Duncan Elliott of the Brighton Safeguarding Investigations Unit said: “These are very worrying incidents and out intensive investigation is continuing.

“We need to find this man before yet further danger and distress is caused. Our patrolling officers are also paying extra attention to the areas involved and anyone with concerns can also speak to them at any time.”