Multiple schoolgirls reported being targeted
Two of the alleged incidents were reported on a footpath off St Davids Road(Image: Google Maps)
A teenage boy has been arrested in the search for an alleged serial flasher in South Gloucestershire. Officers urged people in Thornbury to “remain alert” earlier this week after multiple reports in the town of someone exposing himself.
Patrols were stepped up after four separate incidents were reported between April and December.
The report that triggered the public appeal involved a girl in her mid-teens, who alleged that she was flashed on a footpath off St Davids Road at around 5pm on Monday, December 1. In October, a schoolgirl also reported being targeted at the same location.
In an update today (Friday, December 12), an Avon and Somerset Police spokesperson said: “We arrested a teenage boy on Thursday 11 December on suspicion of indecent exposure and outraging public decency.
“The arrest comes after officers linked four separate incidents in Thornbury, which were reported between April and December. The boy, in his mid-teens, was questioned and released on police bail.”
Neighbourhood Inspector Stephen Baines added: “The investigation continues, as do targeted patrols by neighbourhood officers. We’ve also been in touch with local schools.
“We know that people may not always report such incidents, and I’d like to stress that we do want to hear about any incident or area which has left women or girls feeling unsafe. Your safety is our priority, and any such information will help us to make sure we have our resources in the right place at the right time.”
Insp Baines urged anyone who experiences such an offence to call 999 as soon as they feel safe to do so.
Officers said they are still keen to hear from anyone with relevant information or footage which could help the ongoing enquiries.
Information can be provided via 101 giving the call handler the reference number 5225284819, or an online form can be filled in via the force’s website.
The independent charity Crimestoppers can also be contacted 100 per cent anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online.