Thames Valley Police have issued an urgent appeal for witnesses after a young boy was sexually assaulted on a busy street in Reading last Friday afternoon.

The disturbing incident took place at approximately 1:45pm on Friday, 4 April 2025, on London Road in Earley, a well-trafficked route through the town. According to police, the boy was approached by a man who showed him a picture and then touched him inappropriately over his clothing before fleeing the scene.

Suspect Description

The suspect is described as:

• Asian male, late 40s to early 50s

• White hair and a long white beard

• Wide build, approximately 5ft 8ins tall

• Wearing a long light blue top with a short jacket

The boy was left visibly shaken but was able to provide officers with enough detail to assist the early stages of the investigation.

Police Statement and Witness Appeal

PC Danielle Adams, the investigating officer based at Reading Police Station, stressed the urgency of the case:

“This is a serious offence that occurred in broad daylight, and we are doing everything possible to identify the person responsible. We urge anyone who was in the area or who may have dash-cam or CCTV footage to come forward immediately. Even the smallest detail could be vital.”

Members of the public with any relevant information are urged to:

• Call 101, quoting reference 43250169399

• Report online via the Thames Valley Police website

• Or contact Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111

Calls for Dash-Cam and CCTV Footage

Given the busy nature of London Road, police believe that dash-cam footage from passing vehicles could hold key evidence. Officers are especially interested in footage captured near Lakeside or surrounding streets between 1:30pm and 2:00pm on the day of the incident.

According to a 2023 Criminology Journal study, dash-cam footage has contributed to suspect identification in one in four urban crime cases, underlining the value of technological evidence in modern policing.

Community Reacts with Concern

News of the assault has sparked shock and anger on local social media. One resident posted on X: “Absolutely horrifying that this happened on a Friday afternoon. Hope the police catch this man quickly.” Another wrote: “London Road is always busy – someone must’ve seen something.”

The incident follows a separate sexual assault in Broad Street last month, raising broader concerns about safety in Reading’s public spaces. While unrelated, police say both cases highlight the need for continued public vigilance and cooperation.

Safeguarding and Privacy

Thames Valley Police have confirmed that the identity of the victim is being protected, in line with national safeguarding guidance. Officers continue to offer support to the child and their family.

“We are mindful of the trauma this young victim has endured. Our focus is on both catching the offender and supporting the family through this difficult time,” added PC Adams.

Ongoing Investigation

Detectives are reviewing CCTV, gathering forensic evidence, and continuing door-to-door enquiries in the area. Updates will be shared as the investigation develops, including via the Thames Valley Police newsroom and local media.

Take Action: How You Can Help

• Were you on London Road in Earley around 1:45pm on 4 April?

• Do you have dash-cam or home CCTV that may have captured the suspect?

• Have you seen someone matching the description?

If so, please contact police immediately. Even the smallest observation may hold the clue needed to identify and apprehend the suspect.

“This is about keeping our children and our community safe,” said PC Adams. “We need your help to do that.”

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Have information? Call 101, reference 43250169399, submit a report at thamesvalley.police.uk, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111.