Man, 29, charged with alleged sexual assaults on several women at Huddersfield University
A 29-year-old man has been charged with nine counts of sexual assault on a number of women after an incident at a university campus.
Last updated 6 hours ago
A 29-year-old man has been charged with multiple sexual assaults following several reports of a man approaching and sexually touching women around and near Huddersfield Universities campus.
West Yorkshire Police said yesterday (Thursday 12 November) that they arrested a man and were appealing for witnesses.
The incidents allegedly happened on Tuesday evening between 6pm and 6.30pm.
Today the force confirmed that Sophan Akbash, of Cross Lane, Huddersfield, had been charged with nine counts of sexual assault and would appear at Leeds Magistrates’ Court the same day.
All had made off from a suspect after he approached and grabbed at them.
In a statement yesterday, Detective Inspector Sarah Bradley said: “We continue to work closely with our partners at the university to provide reassurance to students and staff and remain fully committed to supporting victims and safeguarding those who live, study and work in Huddersfield.”
University of Huddersfield deputy vice-chancellor Professor Tim Thornton said on Wednesday: “We recognise that incidents of this nature are deeply concerning and we are providing well-being support to anyone affected.
“As a precaution, we have increased security patrols around campus and are encouraging all members of our community to make use of our SafeZone app, which provides direct access to emergency assistance, well-being support and our campus support and safety team.
“We remain committed to maintaining a safe and supportive environment for everyone who studies, works and visits our campus.”