Appeal after assault on physically disabled woman in Plympton

Police are appealing for witnesses after a physically disabled woman was sexually assaulted and punched in Plympton.

The 28-year-old Plympton woman was in her wheelchair on the Ridgeway around 3pm on Monday 25 September when she was grabbed from behind by a man.

The man touched her inappropriately several times while trying to grab her bag. He then punched her in the face.

The incident happened near to the Hillcrest Drive roundabout and the man ran off in the direction of the shops afterwards.

It is suspected that he fled when a car came towards them and police are appealing to any driver who may have seen this incident.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the incident and seeking the suspect who is described as aged 25-30, of stocky build with short spiky brown hair. He was wearing a green/khaki hoody and grey ripped jeans. The victim was wearing a red top.

Detective Constable Phil Trevains said: “This was an appalling act where the offender has targeted a wheelchair-bound woman, possibly for her money. She was left very shaken by this incident but thankfully has no visible injuries.

“We are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this incident to come forward as well as anyone who recognises the description of the offender. We are particularly keen to speak to the driver who appears to have disturbed the offender and caused him to run off.”

Anyone who can assist with information is asked to contact police via 101@dc.police.uk or by phone on 101, quoting crime reference CR/082804/17.

Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers via 0800 555111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org