Police are appealing for witnesses and information after a girl was approached and threatened in Burgess Hill.
The incident occurred at approximately 8:10 a.m. on Thursday, 16 October 2025, in an alley on Maple Drive, near the junction with Packham Way.
The teenage girl, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, is receiving support from specially-trained officers.
She was approached by a man she did not know and was threatened before she ran away.
Officers are investigating, and an increased police presence will be maintained in the area.
The suspect is described as being slim, white, in his mid-20s, with blue eyes, stubble, and wearing a black leather jacket over a white hooded top, accompanied by blue jeans.
Detective Chief Inspector Pauline Lane said: “This was a distressing incident for the victim on her way to school, which we are taking very seriously.
“We are urging anyone who saw something suspicious in the area to come forward.
“This includes anyone in the area with relevant CCTV, doorbell, dashcam or mobile phone footage.
“Officers are investigating and will be at the scene as we carry out enquiries, and there will be increased patrols to provide reassurance.”
Witnesses or anyone with information can report it to Sussex Police online, quoting serial 343 of 16/10.
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