A man arrested on suspicion of grooming after a significant police presence in Estover has been released on bail until August.
Devon and Cornwall Police have today confirmed the development as their investigations continue.
Officers were called to Keswick Crescent at around 9.10pm on Monday 26 May following reports of an incident that drew attention from residents on the quiet Plymouth street.
A witness told Plymouth Plus there were "a lot of police vehicles" in the area on Monday evening. The large emergency response prompted concern across the local community.
Police later confirmed a man in his 20s, from Plymouth, was arrested on suspicion of a grooming offence. He has now been released on police bail until August while further enquiries are carried out.
At the time a spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police told Plymouth Plus:
"Officers were notified of an incident in Keswick Crescent, Plymouth, at around 9.10pm on Monday 26 May.
"A man in his 20s, from Plymouth, was arrested on suspicion of a grooming offence.
"He remains in police custody at this time."
Why the suspect is not being named and why you shouldn’t either
The suspect in this case has not been charged and remains under investigation. Under UK law, individuals in this situation are entitled to a reasonable expectation of privacy and must not be treated as guilty in the eyes of the public.
Plymouth Plus is not naming the man because doing so could unfairly damage his reputation and risk prejudicing any future legal proceedings.
This is not just a matter for the media. It is also important that members of the public do not share names, photos or speculation about the suspect on social media or in private forums.
Even if a name is circulating online, repeating it or publishing it could breach legal protections designed to ensure a fair trial. It could also put you at risk of contempt of court or defamation proceedings.
A 2022 Supreme Court ruling reinforced that those under investigation but not charged have the right to be presumed innocent and remain anonymous unless there is a compelling public interest in identification.
In sensitive cases such as grooming or sexual offences, protecting privacy is also vital to safeguard potential victims and prevent further harm.
The law applies to everyone. Social media posts can be seen by thousands of people and, if a case goes to trial, jurors may be exposed to public comments made online. This is why courts and news organisations take such care, and why you should too.
Plymouth Plus will continue to report on the case responsibly and provide updates when new, verifiable information is released.
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