Man charged for the abduction and sexual assault of a 6-year-old girl in Manchester

On Wednesday 17 August 2022 at around 4pm, Police officers were called to reports of a suspected abduction and sexual assault of a 6-year-old girl on Warne Avenue in Droylsden, Greater Manchester.

Thankfully, the victim was safely re-united with her family a short time later, and police are continuing to give the victim and her family the necessary support at such a distressing time.

On Thursday 18 August 2022, police arrested a 23-year-old man on suspicion of abduction and sexual assault by penetration of a 6-year-old girl.

Lewis Jones (22/12/1998) of Liverpool, Merseyside has been charged with two counts of sexual assault by penetration and one count of abduction.

He has been remanded in custody and will attend Manchester and Salford Magistrates court today (Saturday 20 August 2022).

Detective Superintendent Richard Hunt, of GMP’s Tameside district, said: “I would, firstly, like to thank members of the public for their reaction to this incident – particularly for sharing our appeals on social media and contacting us with information which has assisted our investigation. 

“As you may know, one man who was arrested in connection with this incident has now been charged but we are aware of the ongoing impact on the community and so additional patrols have been deployed and this will continue for the foreseeable. Anyone who is concerned should speak to officers directly or via our website (www.gmp.police.uk)

“We also understand the interest this case will have generated but it is absolutely imperative that the suspect has a fair trial so we ask members of the public to refrain from engaging in conversations online, at least until proceedings have concluded. We have removed previously circulated images from our channels and ask others to follow suit.

“As ever, our work doesn’t stop here, we are not looking for anyone else in relation to this investigation but our enquiries are still ongoing and we have lots of work to do.

“We ask that anyone with any further information to contact us on 0161 856 9262 quoting incident 2270 of 17/08/2022. Information can also be shared anonymously via the independent charity – Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

(Pic: Warne Ave via Google maps)