A man will face no criminal charges following allegations that he sexually assaulted a teenage girl near Bournemouth Pier. The incident, which reportedly took place along the seafront on the evening of Friday, July 19, led to the arrest of a 20-year-old man from London on suspicion of sexual assault.
However, Dorset Police have confirmed that the girl has decided not to proceed with the case, leading to all charges being dropped.
In a statement, a spokesperson for Dorset Police said: “Following detailed enquiries carried out by officers, the arrested man has been released without charge and will face no further action. Officers liaised with the victim to provide support, and she does not wish the case to proceed at this time. Our enquiries have concluded, but as with any case, we will consider any new lines of enquiry should they emerge.”
The incident sparked concern in the local community, with Bournemouth West MP Jessica Toale expressing her thoughts for the young girl and her family. It was a horrendous incident affecting the young girl, and my thoughts are with her and her family,” Toale said in a statement following the initial reports of the assault.
While the case has now been closed, Dorset Police have reiterated their commitment to supporting victims of sexual assault and pursuing any new evidence or information that may arise.