UPDATE: Carlisle sex attackers could have been as young as 13
Last updated 16:04, Monday, 05 January 2009
POLICE have confirmed the weekend attack on a woman at Stanwix in Carlisle was a sexual assault – and that the attackers could be as young as 13.
Officers have also urged women to avoid walking home alone at night following the assault on a 21-year-old in the early hours of yesterday.
It happened on the footpath leading from Stanwix Bank to Cavendish Terrace in the early hours of yesterday.
Detectives said they were continuing their investigation into the assault, which happened between 3am and 4am.
They said the woman was assaulted by “two males” as she walked alone along the footpath after enjoying a night out with friends in the city centre.
The first attacker was white, aged between 13 and 25, of thin build, with short dark hair that could now have been shaved. He was wearing a dark Nike track suit.
The second was white, possibly tanned, aged between 13 and 25, of thin to medium build with short hair. He was wearing a white v-neck, long-sleeved jumper.
The victim was wearing a purple dress with black leggings.
Detectives are appealing for any witnesses to come forward.
Chief Superintendent Cath Thundercloud said: “We think the victim had been out in town in Carlisle with friends and she was on her way home when she was assaulted.
“We are anxious to hear from anyone who may have information or may have seen anything in the Stanwix Bank and Cavendish Terrace area, close to the Cricket and Ski clubs.
“We would like to hear from anyone who saw two males fitting the descriptions in the area before the incident or leaving the area afterwards.
“We also want people to think about their own friends, neighbours and family members.
"Did anyone they know arrive home in the early hours of the morning or are they now acting out of character?”
Officers are urging women in the Carlisle area to remain vigilant following the assault.
Chief Supt Thundercloud continued: “This kind of incident is extremely rare in Carlisle and every effort is being made to identify and arrest those responsible.
“We are advising women to take sensible precautions such as avoiding walking alone at night and staying to well lit and well used areas.
“When you are going out, go with friends, let someone know where you are going, who you are with and what time you are due to arrive and return.
“As always, we would urge everyone to be vigilant look after one another and report anything suspicious to the police.”
Anyone with information is asked to call Carlisle CID on 0845 3300 247.
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