Sussex Police have appealed for the public’s help to identify two men captured on CCTV after a teenage girl was sexually touched while in the sea off Brighton beach. The alleged incident took place on the afternoon of 23 June, when the victim was sitting with a friend close to the bottom of West Street. Officers say the pair were approached by the two strangers, who joined them on the sand before the group entered the water. It was there, according to the force, that the girl was allegedly touched over her clothing. The offence was reported to police shortly afterwards, prompting the release of still images in the hope that someone recognises the suspects.
Incident Overview
The girl, whose age has not been disclosed, was enjoying a typical summer day on the beach with a companion when the two men appeared. Sussex Police’s statement notes that the men “sat with them” before the trio moved into the water. While submerged, the victim alleges that one of the men touched her over her clothing. The friend remained nearby but did not intervene, and the men left the scene after the contact occurred. The offence was described by officers as a “sexual touch over clothing,” a classification that falls under sexual assault legislation. The victim reported the incident to police later that day, and investigators have since been working to trace the individuals seen in the CCTV footage.
Police Appeal and Evidence
Detectives have released two clear stills taken from beachfront surveillance cameras, showing the suspects walking along the promenade and later sitting on the sand. The images are accompanied by a plea: “If you recognise them, or have any information to report, contact police online, or by calling 101 quoting reference 1694 of 23/06.” The reference number ties directly to the crime log for the 23 June incident. Officers stress that even seemingly minor details – such as the clothing the men were wearing, any tattoos, or the direction they headed after leaving the beach – could prove vital. The force has also urged local businesses, beachfront cafés and transport providers to check their own CCTV systems for any additional footage that might capture the suspects before or after the alleged assault.
Community Response and Safety Advice
The appeal has prompted a wave of concern among Brighton residents and regular beachgoers, many of whom have taken to social media to express solidarity with the victim and to share the police images. Local councillors have reiterated their commitment to maintaining safe public spaces, noting that increased patrols and improved lighting along the seafront are under review. Safety organisations have issued reminders for beach users to stay vigilant, to keep personal belongings secure, and to report any suspicious behaviour immediately. The Sussex Police victim support team has been made available to the girl and her family, offering counselling and guidance through the investigative process.
Why it Matters
The release of CCTV images in this case underscores the vital role that visual evidence plays in modern sexual offence investigations, particularly in busy public environments where witnesses may be scarce. By appealing directly to the public, Sussex Police are not only seeking to identify the alleged perpetrators but also reinforcing a community‑wide stance that such behaviour will not be tolerated. A swift resolution could bring reassurance to victims and deter future offences, while any delay risks eroding confidence in the safety of one of the city’s most popular attractions. The outcome of this inquiry will therefore serve as a barometer for how effectively law enforcement can harness technology and public cooperation to protect vulnerable individuals in open spaces.
