Woman Grabbed from Behind on East Grinstead Footpath

Police are appealing for information following a distressing incident in East Grinstead where a woman was grabbed from behind while walking alone.

The incident occurred at approximately 4.30pm on Tuesday, 13 May, on a footpath in Hackenden Lane, off Charlwood Road.

According to police, the victim was approached from behind by a man who grabbed her. She screamed, prompting the suspect to flee on foot up Charlwood Road, heading in the direction of Lingfield Road.

The suspect is described as a man of large build with greasy, shoulder-length brown hair. He was wearing a black hoodie, baggy jeans, and carrying a black backpack.

Officers are investigating the assault and have stepped up patrols in the area to provide reassurance to the local community.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or saw anything suspicious in the area around the time is urged to contact Sussex Police online or by calling 101, quoting serial 1028 of 13/05.