Police are investigating a sexual assault which took place in Te Teko on the afternoon of Monday the 1st of September 2014.
Detective Sergeant Anthony Hay of Eastern Bay of Plenty Police says “At sometime between 3.00pm and 3.30pm a young female was sexually assaulted by a male youth near the netball courts at Eivers Park in Te Teko.”
“The young person and her family are currently being supported by Police and Victim Support and we are speaking to other people that were in the area at the time in an effort to identify the person responsible.”
The male youth is described as being in his late teens with short black curly hair and was wearing black clothing and a red hat.
“We would like to hear from anyone who may have any information that could assist to identify this person” said Mr Hay.
“We are also aware that this incident has caused distress and feelings of anger among some residents. It is important that Police are able to focus on this investigation and identify the male youth responsible.”
“I would like to reassure the community that there is a dedicated investigation team working on this case and they are already following numerous lines of enquiry.”
“We have increased the number of Police patrols in Te Teko and will be working in partnership with local leaders in an effort to solve this matter quickly for the community.”
Eastern Bay of Plenty Police are wishing to speak with anyone who was in or near Eivers Park between 3pm and 4pm on Monday 1st September or has any knowledge of any information in relation to this incident.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Kawerau Police on 07 323 14 00 or Whakatane Police 07 308 52 55
Information can also be provided anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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Issued by Issued by Mere Wilson Tuala-Fata, Senior Media Advisor, PNHQ.