Dorset Police have arrested two men in connection with separate alleged sexual assaults on Bournemouth beach. The incidents occurred on Tuesday, with police receiving reports on the same day.
The first alleged assault involved a woman in her 20s and was reported at 3:07 p.m. The second incident, involving a woman in her late teens, was reported to police an hour later at 4:18 p.m.
Both women reported being touched inappropriately over their clothing. The first alleged assault took place in the sea.
Police arrested a 37-year-old man from London in connection with the first incident and a 24-year-old man, also from London, in connection with the second. Both men have since been released on bail and are prohibited from entering Dorset. Dorset Police stated that the two offenses are not being treated as linked.
Bournemouth West MP Jessica Toale commented on the incidents, expressing her thoughts were with the victims and satisfaction that the events were reported to the police. She emphasized that perpetrators have been banned from the area and stated, "Women should not have to modify their lives, their choices, or how they enjoy a sunny day to stay safe from the men committing these crimes." Toale also remarked, "This is yet another example of people coming from outside the area and failing to treat it and the people who live here with the respect they deserve."