A 35-year-old man has been arrested following an alleged assault involving a 12-year-old child at Guthrie Park in Havelock North earlier this month.
Police said the incident occurred at the BMX park at about 3.10pm on Friday, June 5, when the child was approached by a stranger. As part of the investigation, officers appealed to the public for information and sought sightings of a vehicle believed to be linked to the suspect, described as a grey Nissan Navara ute with roof racks and no canopy. Investigators also asked anyone who was in Guthrie Park, the BMX track or nearby car park between 2pm and 3.30pm, as well as anyone with dashcam or cellphone footage from the area, to come forward.
The investigation led police to Picton, where the suspect was located and taken into custody without incident on Monday. He is scheduled to appear in the Blenheim District Court tomorrow facing three serious charges relating to the incident. Police have opposed bail.
Authorities thanked members of the public for the information provided during the investigation and acknowledged the work of staff from the Eastern, Wellington and Tasman police districts in helping secure the arrest.
Police said support continues to be provided to the victim and their family following what they described as a distressing incident. Reassurance patrols remain in place around Guthrie Park, and officers are encouraging people to remain aware of their surroundings and contact emergency services if they feel unsafe or witness suspicious activity.
