POLICE say they are investigating an assault in a Yate park in which a 12-year-old girl was punched, kicked and dragged to the ground by her hair.
Video of the incident, which happened in St Mary’s Park on Saturday at about 5.30pm, has been widely shared on social media.
Officers say the incident “is being treated seriously” and are appealing to people not to share “names or other identifying details” of those involved.
The victim was left with scratches and a pain in the head after being attacked by what police described as a “group of three teenagers”.
The attack stopped after a man intervened.
‘Avoid speculation’ – police
Neighbourhood Policing Inspector Stephen Baines said: “We have met with the victim and her family and provided them with reassurance and taken initial statements.
“They are being supported by officers and the investigation is progressing.
“We have also been in contact with the relevant schools and are providing them with support and guidance around safeguarding.
“It is our primary focus to ensure that appropriate safeguarding measures are in place to protect all individuals involved.
“We are aware of numerous social media posts circulating which name the parties involved.
“We would like to remind the public not to identify juveniles involved in the criminal justice process.
“We urge everyone to exercise caution and responsibility when posting online, and to avoid speculation and to refrain from sharing names or other identifying details.
“We thank the public for their cooperation and understanding and we would like to reassure them that this incident is being treated seriously and we continue to update the victim and their family.”
Anyone with information who has not yet come forward is being asked to call 101 and give the crime reference number 5225 251 861, or get in touch with the police online.