Two arrested after teenager ‘assaulted repeatedly’ at Worthing park

Sussex Police said a 13-year-old local boy was with a group of friends in the playground close to Robson Road when he was approached by two boys known to him.

He was assaulted repeatedly before members of the public intervened, the force added, and was taken to hospital for treatment for facial injuries.

A police spokesman said: “The incident, which happened at about 4.50pm on Wednesday, July 21, was reported by a member of the public.

“Following enquiries, police arrested two boys from Worthing in connection with this incident and two others, all reported to have occurred between July 6 and 21.

“A 13-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm, common assault, assault occasioning actual bodily harm and sending by communication a threatening message. He has been bailed with strict conditions until August 16, pending further investigation.

“A second 13-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm, common assault, assault occasioning actual bodily harm and using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress. He has been bailed with strict conditions until August 20, pending further investigation.”

Police are appealing for witnesses to the incident.

Chief Inspector Sarah Leadbeatter, District Commander for Adur, Worthing and Horsham, said: “This was a violent and unprovoked attack carried out on a young boy who subsequently required hospital treatment.

“This sort of behaviour will absolutely not be tolerated, and we will continue to work with partners including schools, local authorities and the local community to combat youth violence in West Sussex.

“I am keen for anyone who saw what happened, or anyone with any information about the incident, to please come forward.”

People can report information to Sussex Police online, or by calling 101, quoting serial 946 of 21/07.