Man accused of assaulting woman on M5 in Somerset

A man has been charged with assaulting a woman on the M5. Police officers were called to the motorway between Taunton and Bridgwater, where it was reported a woman had been assaulted on the hard shoulder next to a grey Jaguar X-Type. A 35-year-old man was arrested in connection with the incident and has since been charged, Avon and Somerset Police said.

He appeared at North Somerset Magistrates Court on Monday, July 22. He was bailed to next appear at Taunton Crown Court on Monday, August 19. Avon and Somerset Police are appealing for information from anyone who saw the assault, or who may have dashcam footage of it.

The force said in a statement: “Detectives are appealing for witnesses after a woman was assaulted on the hard shoulder of the M5 next to a grey Jaguar X-Type. Police were called to the incident at approximately 10.30am on Sunday 21 July between junctions 25 (Taunton) and 24 (Bridgwater) of the M5 northbound. “A 35-year-old man was arrested and has since been charged.

He appeared at North Somerset Magistrates’ court on Monday 22 July where he was bailed to appear at Taunton Crown Court on Monday 19 August.

Detectives are urging anyone who witnessed the incident – or anyone who has any dashcam footage of it – to come forward.

“If you can help, please call 101[1] and give the call handler the reference number 5224189739, or complete our online appeals form[2].”

References

1. ^ 101 (tel)
2. ^ online appeals form (www.avonandsomerset.police.uk)