Photo of Hove sex attack suspect released

Police have released a photo of a man suspected of carrying out a serious sexual assault on a woman in Hove.

Sussex Police said today (Tuesday 10 December): “The 18-year-old victim was out with friends in Brighton on Saturday 23 November and met the suspect in the Fiddler’s Elbow pub in Boyces Street.

“She, a friend, the suspect and an unknown witness left the pub at closing time around 3am and walked along Western Road, into Blatchington Road and then Portland Road, stopping to buy chips on the way.

“In Hove, the unknown man left the group – and the victim’s friend, walking ahead, lost touch with her.

“At an alleyway alongside the tattoo shop in Portland Road, the victim was pushed against the wall and seriously sexually assaulted.

“She pushed her attacker away but he pushed her to the ground, pinned her down and attempted to rape her.

“He was disturbed by a noise and she managed to escape and run off.”

Detective Constable Paul Clements said: “This was obviously a very frightening experience for this young woman and we are very keen to speak to a man who we believe can help us with our investigation.

“He is believed to be known as Vinnie or Vincent and frequents Irish-themed bars in Brighton city centre.

“We have just obtained a photo of him taken by a security camera in the Fiddler’s Elbow that evening.

“He is white, in his mid-twenties, 5ft 7in, of medium build, with dark hair, facial stubble and speaks with an Irish accent.

“He was wearing a check shirt and cable jumper and was carrying an iPad.

“We would also like to speak to the unknown man who was in the pub and walked part of the way with the group after leaving it.”

Anyone who saw the group at any time between them leaving the pub and about 4.45am or who knows the man is asked to phone Sussex Police on 101 or email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk.

Alternatively, anyone with information can call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.