Police in Devon and Cornwall have launched a public appeal after a woman was sexually assaulted in Plymouth city centre, with officers now searching for a passer-by who bravely stepped in during the attack.
The incident happened on New George Street in Plymouth at around 3am on 12 September 2025, when the woman was walking home alone.
Police say a man approached her, spoke to her briefly, and then suddenly launched a violent assault. Investigators believe a key witness may hold vital information that could help identify the suspect and progress the case.
The case has sparked renewed concern about safety in Plymouth’s city centre at night, particularly for lone pedestrians.
What happened during the Plymouth sex assault?
According to Devon and Cornwall Police, the victim was walking along New George Street when she was stopped by a man who engaged her in conversation. Officers say the interaction quickly turned into a frightening attack.
Police allege the suspect pulled at the woman’s clothing, dragged her to the ground and attempted to stop her from calling for help by covering her mouth.
The woman shouted and struggled, and her screams were heard by a passerby who stepped in. The suspect then fled the area.
While New George Street is known as one of Plymouth’s busiest central locations, the early hours of the morning can leave the area quieter, with fewer people around to witness incidents in real time.
Who is the witness the police want to trace?
Police are now appealing for help to locate a woman believed to be in her 20s, who reportedly came to the victim’s aid during the assault. Officers believe she may be called Sophia.
Investigators say the woman offered the victim her jacket and stayed with her before ensuring she got home safely.
Police describe her actions as crucial, not only because she helped protect the victim, but because she may have seen the suspect at close range and could provide a detailed account of what happened.
Officers believe her statement could strengthen the investigation and help establish a clearer timeline of events.
What description has been given of the suspect?
Devon and Cornwall Police describe the suspect as a white male in his early 20s. He was reportedly wearing a black puffer jacket and had tattoos on his forearms.
Detectives believe the tattoos could be a significant identifying feature, especially if they are distinctive or recognisable to people who know him.
Police have not confirmed whether they have CCTV footage showing the suspect clearly, but they continue to appeal for anyone who may have been in the area to provide information.
Why does this appeal matter months later?
Although the incident took place last September, police say witness information remains essential. Serious sexual assault investigations often depend on public cooperation, especially when a suspect flees before officers can arrive.
A reliable witness can provide details that CCTV cannot always capture, such as how the suspect spoke, his exact movements, or what direction he ran after the assault.
Even small observations, such as someone appearing panicked, behaving aggressively, or leaving the area quickly, can help police identify patterns and potential suspects.
The appeal also underlines the wider challenge faced by city centres across the UK, where late-night streets can become vulnerable areas for violent opportunistic crimes.
How can the public help police in Plymouth?
Police are asking anyone who was in the city centre around New George Street during the early hours of that morning to come forward.
Officers are also urging residents, taxi drivers, late-night workers and nearby businesses to check whether they have CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage that could support the investigation.
Even if someone believes they only saw something minor, police stress that it may still be relevant when pieced together with other evidence.
What support is available for sexual assault victims in the UK?
Sexual assault can have long-lasting effects, and victims often struggle in silence long after an incident. Police and support services continue to remind the public that help is available regardless of when the assault occurred.
Across the UK, Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) provide confidential support, medical care and access to specialist counselling. Survivors can also access help through local charities, NHS mental health services and national helplines.
