Hunt for serial dummy snatcher concentrating on infants in prams in spate of incidents

Police are attempting to find a person who has been approaching individuals with infants in an Essex city and eradicating their dummies. Essex Police have launched particulars a few sequence of “unusual” incidents in Harlow between February and August this 12 months in Harlow.

In one incident, a toddler was reportedly being assaulted.

According to the police, there have been 4 incidents reported between February 10 and August 7 within the Staple Tye Shopping Centre, Woodcroft, Parsloe Road, and Cooks Spinney areas of Harlow.

Officers stated in addition to the infants having their dummies eliminated, one little one was additionally assaulted.

Police say the outline of the person concerned has constantly been a slim white man in his 20s gentle/light-brown colored eyes, and yellow enamel.

A spokesman stated: “We’re releasing an image of a man we want to identify in connection with the incident and while you cannot see his face, we’re hoping people will recognise his clothing.

“It is a black hooded prime and carrying a black Nike bag with a white emblem.

“We need anyone who recognises this man or has seen someone matching the description acting suspiciously to contact us.”

Chief Inspector Paul Austin, District Commander for Harlow, said: “This is a series of unusual incidents and, as a parent myself, I understand the level of concern they will cause.

“However, I want to reassure the people of Harlow that we have detectives dedicated to investigating these incidents, have linked previous incidents, and my teams will be visible out in the community to provided reassurance.

“I would urge you to continue going about your daily business as usual but be vigilant of anyone acting suspiciously.

“I need anyone who has information or recognises this person to contact us.”

Visit www.essex.police.uk/digital101 or name 101 with data. If you want to make an nameless report you may contact unbiased charity @Crimestoppers, by visiting their web site or by calling 0800 555 111.