Sussex Police are appealing for witnesses after reports of a man exposing himself in Billingshurst, West Sussex.
Officers are investigating incidents reported in July, September and October in the Station Road area. A 55-year-old man was arrested and has been bailed with strict conditions in connection with the investigation, the force said in an appeal published on Monday 26 October.
What police are asking for
Sussex Police want to hear from anyone who has witnessed suspicious behaviour in the area. Information can be reported to the force online through the Sussex Police website, quoting the serial number below.
Serial number: 478 of 16/07
Officers say they are continuing proactive patrols in the area.
Where this is
Billingshurst is a large village in West Sussex, on the A29 and the Arun Valley railway line. Police have named the Station Road area but have not published exact locations or times for the incidents.
What the police say
Chief Inspector James Davidson said the force is also working with schools in the area:
“We are investigating a series of reports last summer and this autumn, and we are liaising with nearby schools to ensure all children are safeguarded.
“Officers are carrying out increased patrols in the area to prevent any further offences and to provide reassurance. We are asking the public to be vigilant and to report any suspicious behaviour to us.”
Chief Inspector James Davidson, Sussex Police
What is known so far
Police say a 55-year-old man was arrested and bailed with strict conditions. They have not named him, said what he was arrested on suspicion of, or said when he was arrested, and no charge has been announced. An arrest is not a finding of guilt.
What the law says
ImJustBrighton note. Exposure is an offence under Section 66 of the Sexual Offences Act 2003. A person commits it by intentionally exposing their genitals, either intending that someone will see them and be caused alarm, distress or humiliation, or for sexual gratification, intending that someone will see them and being reckless as to whether they will be caused alarm, distress or humiliation.
The maximum penalty is six months in prison on summary conviction and two years on conviction on indictment. Police have not said what offence the investigation relates to.
If you saw something or have been affected
Report information to Sussex Police online, quoting serial number 478 of 16/07. In an emergency, call 999.
Victim Support offers free, confidential support to anyone affected by crime, whether or not it has been reported to the police. Its free support line is 08 08 16 89 111, open 24 hours a day, every day.
Sussex Police are also appealing for information on another West Sussex case. See our report on the linked burglaries appeal.
We will update this story when more is reported.
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