CCTV appeal after sexual assaults in two Leeds suburbs

Police say the incidents took place in the Harehills and Gipton areas of Leeds in recent weeks.

The first incident happened on Monday, November 17, at around 5:30pm on Berkley Road. The suspect approached a woman from behind as she was walking along the street. He sexually assaulted her before running away.

The incident was followed by two similar incidents which both took place on Monday, December 8, one at 11.35am at Hill Top Mount and the other at 1pm at Amberton Road in Gipton.

The suspect approached the female victims on both occasions. They were sexually assaulted by a male who then ran away.

The most recent incident happened on Monday, December 22 at 11.40am in Back Hill Top Avenue, Harehills. A woman was approached from behind, sexually assaulted by a man who then ran off.

Officers believe the incidents are connected. The suspect involved in all four incidents was described as a short, Asian male who was wearing all black or dark clothing. He was described as wearing a long black baggy coat in one incident and a navy-blue puffer jacket in another incident.

Anyone who recognised the suspect or has information about the incidents is asked to contact detectives at West Yorkshire Police’s Leeds District Safeguarding Unit by calling 101 or go online at https://www.westyorkshire.police.uk/LiveChat quoting reference 13250732608.

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.