Sex assault charges brought against ‘man on a bike’ for alleged serial attacks

A man from Streatham who allegedly approached his victims on a bike has been arrested and charged with a series of sexual assaults in south-east London.

Edwin Cortes-Pinerez, 39, of Mitcham Lane, was arrested on Thursday by police investigating eight incidents in which women were approached by a man riding a bicycle who touched them over their clothing.

Cortes-Pinerez will appear in custody today at Bromley Magistrates’ Court.

He has been charged with sexual touching, contrary to Section 3 of the Sexual Offences Act 2003, in respect of reported incidents between July 3 and 24 in Greenwich – in Aldeburgh Street, Vanbrugh Hill, Halstow Road, Roan Street, Stratheden Road, Greenwich South Street and Moorhead Way. There was also another alleged assault in Oldfield Grove, Southwark.

Enquiries continue. Anyone with information is asked to call 101 and quote reference CAD 4297/28JUL24

Acting Detective Sergeant Chris Handscombe, one of a team of detectives working to investigate serious and complex cases in South-east London, said: “The Metropolitan Police has an action plan to tackle violence against women and girls.

“The whole of the Met is committed to doing much more to identify and tackle the most dangerous and prolific offenders.

“I urge anyone who has been a victim to come forward and speak with police. You will be listened to and supported.”

Picture: The Met