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Police apologise over excessively crude description of 'sex attacker'

Windmill Lane in York, where the alleged attack took place
Windmill Lane in York, where the alleged attack took place

North Yorkshire Police has issued a grovelling apology after posting a graphic description online of a man wanted for exposing himself to a student.

The force admitted the appeal went into ‘too much detail’ after the suspect was described as a ‘fat’ man with a ‘small penis and testicles that hang noticeably low

Police in York are investigating the ‘disturbing incident’ which happened on Sunday when the student walking alone at roughly 1.15pm when the pale man confronted her.

On Tuesday, police issued an apology over the original appeal.

It said: “On the evening of 19 November 2018, we posted an appeal on Facebook to help identify a suspect in the York area who performed a sexual act in public.

“The appeal included a description of the naked man, which we accept went into too much detail.

“This has caused upset to a number of people who read the appeal and we unreservedly apologise for any offence caused.

“The appeal was quickly removed and a more appropriately worded version posted on the force website.

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“We use social media every day to appeal for information and to warn and inform members of the public.

“As always, we thank all our followers for their support in sharing our appeals, it is very much appreciated.”

The suspect is described as white with a very pale complexion, aged between 35 and 45 years, around 5ft 10in tall with a fat build.

He has very little body hair and no obvious tattoos or scars.

Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is urged to call North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 1, and speak to the Force Control Room.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111. Please quote reference 12180215684 when providing details about this incident.