In 2026, the Offender Database recorded that Gloucestershire Constabulary released a CCTV image of a male they wished to identify following a sexual assault in Gloucester city centre. The incident, which took place on Wednesday, 7 January 2026, involved a 17-year-old girl who was targeted while socialising with friends. Detectives are urging anyone with information to come forward to assist with the ongoing investigation.
The investigation established that between 7:00 pm and 8:00 pm, the victim was on Westgate Street, close to the McDonald’s, when she recognised a male and approached him to exchange pleasantries. The male then reportedly pulled the girl into a shop doorway and forced her into a hug. He attempted to kiss her and proceeded to grab her body beneath her clothing and underwear without her consent. The assault was interrupted when the victim and a group of other males told the individual to stop, allowing the girl to leave the area with her friends.
Investigative Detail and Description
The police reported that although the girl recognised the male, she did not know him personally. Officers believe the individual is approximately 17 or 18 years old. Following a series of initial enquiries in Gloucester, the CCTV image has been made public to help identify the person in connection with the report. Gloucestershire Constabulary stated that the behaviour was predatory and that identifying the male is a priority for the local Safeguarding Team.
The police noted that bystander intervention was crucial in allowing the victim to escape the situation on Westgate Street. For the incident reported on 8 January, officers are conducting local area sweeps and reviewing additional surveillance footage from businesses near the Gloucester city centre. The prosecution reported that evidence from the victim and potential witnesses is being used to build a profile of the suspect to prevent further incidents in the area.
Police Request and Statutory Reporting
For the offence in Gloucestershire, the authorities have issued the following guidance:
- Incident Reference: 298 of 8 January.
- Location: Westgate Street, Gloucester, Gloucestershire.
- Contact Method: Call 101 or report via the Gloucestershire Constabulary website.
- Anonymous Reporting: Information can also be provided to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
Monitoring and Public Protection
The individual, once identified, will be managed by the Gloucestershire Constabulary in accordance with standard criminal justice procedures. Due to the nature of the sexual assault on a 17-year-old in Gloucester, any suspect will likely face strict conditions to ensure the safety of the public, particularly young women in the city centre.
As part of the investigation in Gloucester, Gloucestershire, officers are increasing patrols around Westgate Street to provide reassurance to the public. Authorities state that the CCTV appeal is a vital tool in their commitment to tackling violence against women and girls. Any person found to be the individual in the image will be required to attend a police station for a formal interview, which may result in charges being brought at Gloucestershire Magistrates’ Court.
If you or anyone you know has been affected by the individuals highlighted on this website, please report them to the Police on 101 (999 in an emergency) or visit their online resources for further details on reporting a crime. You can also report to Crimestoppers if you wish to remain completely anonymous. There is help available on our support links page.