POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a 12-year-old boy was allegedly physically assaulted by a man in Tower Hill on October 10.
Police believe a couple walking a Labrador at the time may have witnessed the assault and are calling on them to come forward to give a statement.
Leading Senior Constable Jodie Ebinger said a group of three boys, aged about 12, noticed they were being followed while walking on Village Way about 7pm.
After chasing the boys, the man, believed to be aged about 17 or 18, picked up one of the boys unprovoked and threw him to the ground.
Sen-Constable Ebinger said the victim had some scrapes and was very shaken up, but not badly injured.
She said the other boys and their families were also shaken by the incident.
Sen-Constable Ebinger said the incident did not seem to present an ongoing threat to the community because there had been no reported similar assaults since.
“I think it’s encouraging that it has been a week and there have been no other incidents, but people should remain vigilant,” she said.
“We know that Swan Hill is a safe area, and this was an unusual attack.
“We still live in a safe area, but this was an unfortunate incident, and the community has been very helpful to our inquiries.”
Police have gathered CCTV footage they believe captured the accused.
A composite sketch has also been made from witness statements.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact First Constable Lay at Swan Hill Police Station on 5036 1600 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
