Police have launched a fresh appeal for information one week on from an indecent assault in South Queensferry.
A 7-year-old girl was attacked on a cycle path to the rear of the South Queensferry Bowling Club between 1.30 p.m. and 1.45 p.m. on Friday 3rd June and a major investigation by the Public Protection Unit has been underway ever since.
A dedicated team of detectives are continuing to progress inquiries, while high-visibility police patrols have been carried out in South Queensferry over the past week.
During that time officers have spoken to a number of local residents, dog walkers and other members of the public to gather information and identify the suspect.
While officers have been encouraged by the level of response and support from the community, they are urging anyone who believes they may know, or have seen the male responsible, to come forward.
He is described as white, high school age with hazel brown-coloured hair that was swept forward and wearing dark bottoms, a blue round neck t-shirt with white lettering and had a temporary tattoo on one of his hands.
He was also in possession of a black and blue rucksack.
Detective Inspector Julie Marshall from the Public Protection Unit in Edinburgh said: “It is now one week since a young girl was subjected to an indecent assault in a wooded area of South Queensferry and I would firstly like to thank the public for their incredible support and assistance with our inquiries.
“Several members of the local community have already come forward to provide information that continues to be progressed as part of our efforts to trace the suspect.
“I would again ask that anyone who has information relevant to our investigation, who has yet to speak with police, does so immediately by calling 101, making an anonymous report to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or by speaking to any of the officers out on patrol in the area.”
Chief Inspector James Jones, Local Area for Commander for North West Edinburgh said: “As we expected, the South Queensferry community has come together to help us identify the young girl’s attacker and bring him to justice.
“We will continue to maintain a visible presence within the area to speak with local residents and gather any information that may be relevant to this investigation.
“I remain confident that someone within the community knows the suspect or can help us find him. If this is the case, then please contact police immediately.”
John graduated from Telford College in 2010 with an HNC in Practical Journalism and since then he worked for the North Edinburgh News, The Southern Reporter, the Irish News Review and The Edinburgh Reporter. In addition he has been published in the Edinburgh Evening News and the Hibernian FC Programme.
