15-year-old admits sexually assaulting women
He's pleaded guilty to five offences in court
A 15-year-old boy has been arrested and charged with multiple sexual offences in Trafford, following reports of assaults and indecent exposure between February and June this year.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) confirmed that three women reported being sexually assaulted, and two separate incidents of indecent exposure were reported in Stretford and near the canal in Sale.
The boy was arrested on Sunday and has since admitted to all five offences in court. He is currently on bail and is due to be sentenced in August.
The charges followed an investigation by the Trafford North Neighbourhood Policing Team. In response to the initial reports, police deployed both high-visibility and covert patrols in the affected areas.
Inspector Scott Wolstenholme from the Trafford North Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “In response to these reports, both high-visibility and covert patrols were deployed in the areas to try and catch the perpetrator.
“Extra officers will continue to patrol the areas to deter further incidents as we know reports of this nature will cause concern.
“We strongly encourage anyone who may have been the victim of a sexual assault or witnessed any of the incidents to contact us.
“We have a dedicated neighbourhood team who will speak to anyone with information and we also have specialist officers to support victims – reports can be made quoting log 732-150625.
“Anyone who has witnessed an incident, been affected, or holds relevant information should contact us via 101, or report anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
"Information can also be reported via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or the reporting tools on our website – always call 999 in an emergency."
Support for victims
Anyone who has experienced sexual abuse is encouraged to seek help. There are several organisations offering support across Greater Manchester:
Saint Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Manchester: Offers forensic medical examinations, practical and emotional support, and counselling for all ages, available 24/7. Call 0161 276 6515. Greater Manchester Rape Crisis: Confidential support and counselling for women over 18. Call 0161 273 4500 or email [email protected] We Are Survivors: Specialist trauma-informed support for male victims of sexual abuse in Greater Manchester. Call 0161 236 2182. GMP is urging anyone with information related to the recent offences or other similar incidents to come forward as investigations continue.