WANTED | In connection with sexual assault of woman in Crosby

We are appealing for help in tracing a man we wish to speak to in connection with the sexual assault of a woman in Crosby.

At around 3.45pm on Thursday 14^th March a call was received reporting a man attempting to assault a woman in the sand dunes near to Crosby Leisure Centre and Endsleigh Road. The man was reported to have grabbed the victim and made threats of a sexual nature. She received a minor injury to the throat but was able to run off and call police.

We are appealing for help in locating 31-year-old Temesgen Desta who we believe could have information which could assist our investigation.

Desta is of no fixed abode. It is believed he may use other names and be using public transport, specifically the train, to travel around the country.

West Midlands Police are also appealing for help in tracing him as part of an ongoing investigation into a rape in Birmingham on 15^th March.

Members of the public are asked not to approach Desta but if they see him to call 999 immediately.

Detective Chief Inspector Martin Earl said: “I would appeal for anyone who knows Desta or has any clues to his whereabouts not to approach him but to contact us as a matter of urgency. We believe he may have information which could assist us with our enquiries.”

Anyone with information about Desta’s whereabouts can also contact our Fugitive Team on 0151 777 6692 with reference 19100110441 or contact @MerPolCC or 101. Information can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity CrimestoppersUK on 0800 555 111.