Team of detectives working on reports of sex assaults

DETECTIVES are continuing to investigate a series of incidents in Stockbrook area of Derby.

Derbyshire police say a team dedicated to the investigation has been working on several lines of enquiry after three reported incidents, including two sexual assaults.

The three incidents being investigated happened at the following dates, times and locations:

■ Between 8pm and 9pm in Stockbrook Street, near to St Luke’s Church, on Wednesday 17 November.

■ Around 3.10am on Sunday 21 November near the junction of Ward Street and Drewry Lane.

■ At about 12.50am on Monday 6 December in Drewry Lane.

Police say patrols have been stepped up in the area and will be continuing over the coming days.

DCI Matt Croome, who is leading the investigation, said: “Over the past week, a team of detectives have been investigating a series of incidents in the Stockbrook area of the city.

“All the incidents, two of which involved women reporting being sexually assaulted, have occurred in the hours of darkness and increased patrols are taking place in and around the area.

“There is understandable concern as a result of the incidents, however, I want to reassure those who live, work and visit Stockbrook, as well as the wider city centre area, that this is being taken extremely seriously by the force, with a team dedicated to this investigation in place.

“I would urge anyone who has not already reported any concerns or incidents that may have happened in the Stockbrook area to come forward as a matter of urgency.

“And I would also ask anyone who feels unsafe calls 999 immediately. This will ensure your safety and give officers the very best chance of securing vital evidence and making timely arrests.”

Anyone who has information about any of the incidents is asked to contact Derbyshire police including reference 21*687194.