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Image of sex attack suspect is released

Detectives have today released this e-fit of a suspect they want to speak to in connection with a sexual assault on a teenage girl in the Black Country.

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It is hoped someone will recognise the man who attacked his 13-year-old victim on July 26.

Police said the man followed the girl through Victoria Park, Smethwick, on her way home from school at around 3pm and talked his way into her home address. Once inside the house, he assaulted the girl and later left on his bike, heading back towards the park.

The suspect is described as dark skinned, around 5ft 4ins tall and of medium build with brown eyes. He had a deep voice and wore black tracksuit bottoms, a black T-shirt, white football boots and a grey baseball cap. It is unclear how old he was. The bike he rode was a small red or grey BMX that came up to his knees.

Det Con Gail Cartridge, who is leading the investigation, said: "While the description of the offender is a good one, we are still unclear about his age and the victim has only been able to tell us that he was older than her.

"We've been following up a number of lines of inquiry but have so far not been able to trace the attacker.

"After spending time to ensure the e-fit is as accurate as possible, we hope someone will come forward and tell us who this person may be. The victim has been left extremely traumatised by what happened and the arrest of an offender will go a long way in helping her to recover from this terrible ordeal."

Anyone who recognises the man in the image should call Sandwell police on 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Dc Cartridge added: "West Midlands Police treats all reports of rape and sexual assault very seriously.

"We understand that reporting a rape or sexual assault is often extremely difficult, which is why we have a team of specially trained officers who can help and support victims throughout the entire process."

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