A YOUNG woman was “followed and sexually assaulted” next to Bournemouth beach as cops arrest a man, 26.
The victim, in her 20s, was targeted while walking along Meyrick Road near the popular seaside resort at around 7pm on February 18.
A man approached the woman and started making “inappropriate comments”, Dorset Police said.
She was followed as she ran towards a block of flats to get away.
The victim was then cornered by the suspect after reaching a dead end on a secluded footpath.
Her attacker “touched her over her clothing” before a member of the public stepped in to help after hearing the victim “shouting”.
Dorset Police have since detained a 26-year-old man on suspicion of sexual assault and stalking.
He has been released on police bail while the investigation is ongoing.
Officers are now keen to speak to the passerby who intervened and anyone he was with for more information.
A spokesperson for the force said: “Between 7pm and 7.30pm on Tuesday 18 February 2025, a woman aged in her 20s was walking on Meyrick Road when a man approached her.
“It is reported that the man was making inappropriate comments toward the victim and followed her as she ran away in the direction of Elizabeth Court.
“When she reached an enclosed footpath, the man got very close to the victim and reportedly touched her over her clothing.
“She managed to run away towards Bath Road.
“Following enquiries, a 26-year-old man from Bournemouth was arrested on suspicion of sexual assault and stalking.
“He has been released on police bail while enquiries continue.”
Detective Constable Merryn Matthews, of BCP CID, added: “A full investigation has been ongoing into this incident and we are supporting the victim as enquiries continue.
“During the incident, a member of the public intervened after reportedly hearing the victim shouting as she tried to leave the scene.
“I am keen to speak to this person, and anyone he was with at the time, as they may have important information to assist my investigation.”
The victim was followed as she ran away in the direction of Elizabeth Court Published: [#item_custom_pubDate]
