A manhunt has been launched after a dog walker was reportedly sexually assaulted in a quiet UK village. Investigating police officers have released the name and picture of a man they believe is linked to the alleged attack.
Police said a woman was walking her dog in Buckshaw Village, Lancashire, at around 10am last Thursday (October 9). She was reportedly approached by a man who started to ask her questions before touching her inappropriately. The suspect is alleged to have followed her home, and the woman reported the incident to the police.
South Ribble Police have now identified Lewis Westwood as a person of interest following the alleged sexual assault. The 31-year-old is reportedly a rough sleeper, and the public is being urged not to approach him.
The force said: “Westwood, 31, is wanted in connection with our investigation into a sexual assault, and he is also wanted on recall to prison for breach of licence. He is of slim build and has connections to Buckshaw Village and Chorley.
“If you see Westwood, please do not approach him. For immediate sightings of Westwood, please call 999 quoting log 371 of 10th October.
“For any previous sightings, or if you have any information that could help us, please call 101 quoting log quoting log 371 of 10th October.”
Police have increased their presence in the area as they continue to investigate the reported sexual assault. The local community are being urged to speak with officers if they have any concerns.
South Ribble Police added in a post on Facebook: “On Friday we asked for your help to identify and locate a man we wanted to speak to in connection with our investigation into a sexual assault in Buckshaw.
“We were called at around 10am on Thursday 9th October to a report that a woman had been out walking her dog in Buckshaw when she was approached by a man who started to ask her questions and touch her inappropriately before following her home.
“We would like to thank you for your help with our appeal on Friday. Following enquiries and the information we received from that public appeal, we are now making a direct appeal for your help in locating Lewis Westwood, who we believe is linked to the incident mentioned above.”
Buckshaw Village is located between the towns of Chorley and Leyland in Lancashire. It has a population of around 4,000 people.