Full Breakdown
Alleged Sexual Assault of a Woman in Her 40s at Bournemouth Beach
7/17/2026, 9:10:14 PM
Incident Overview
On Sunday, July 12, at approximately 6 p.m., a woman in her 40s was allegedly sexually assaulted while swimming in the sea off Bournemouth beach, to the left of the pier. Police reports state that a man swam up to a family group and touched the woman on her bottom over her clothing. The suspect was described as being of Indian descent, about 5 ft 6 in tall, with black hair, a small stubbly beard, wearing a white T-shirt and black shorts. Dorset Police arrested a 35-year-old man from London on suspicion of sexual assault; he was later released on conditional bail.
Police Investigation and Appeal
Dorset Police launched a public appeal for independent witnesses, emphasizing that such testimony could aid the investigation. Officers also urged anyone with dash-cam, door-bell, or CCTV footage to contact the force. The appeal includes the reference number 55260105198 for online submissions or calls to 101, and an option to contact the charity Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We believe that there were independent witnesses that saw the incident and I am appealing for them to please contact us as this could assist our investigation.” — Police Constable Matthew McGuinness, Dorset Police
- “The man is described as of Indian descent, about five feet six inches tall and with black hair and a small stubbly beard. He was wearing a white T-shirt and black shorts.” — Dorset Police statement
Key Details Summary
- Date & Time: Sunday, July 12, 2024, ? 6 p.m.
- Location: Sea off Bournemouth beach, left of the pier.
- Victim: Woman, 40s.
- Suspect Description: Indian descent, 5 ft 6 in, black hair, stubbly beard, white T-shirt, black shorts.
- Arrest: 35-year-old London man, released on conditional bail.
- Contact for Information: Dorset Police online portal or 101 (quote 55260105198); Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.
Police have indicated an increased presence in the area while enquiries continue. No further arrests have been reported as of the latest statements.
