A woman was grabbed from behind near Queen’s Park in Brighton on Sunday (21 December).
The 33-year-old victim was in West Drive, near to the archway entrance of Queen’s Park and the junction of Park Hill, at about 9pm when an attempt was made to pull her into the park.
The suspect may have been disturbed by a passing motorist and ran off into Queen’s Park. The woman managed to make her way to her car and call police.
She was shaken but not hurt and had nothing stolen from her, Sussex Police said.
The suspect was described as a white man in dark clothing who smelled strongly of cigarettes.
Detective Constable Marcus Roberts said: “We are appealing for any witnesses who may have seen someone acting suspiciously in the area of Queen’s Park.
“We are actively pursuing all lines of inquiry to identify the suspect and have increased high-visibility patrols in the area to reassure the public.”
Anyone with information is asked to phone Sussex Police on 101 or email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk.
