Teen Arrested After Elderly Man Assaulted While Walking Dogs In Cowes

A 14-year-old boy has been arrested after an elderly man was reportedly attacked while out walking his dogs in Cowes.

The incident is said to have happened at around 15:00 on Wednesday in the grounds of Northwood House, where the 74-year-old victim had been walking his two retrievers.

It’s understood the situation escalated following concerns about alleged vandalism to a nearby war memorial.

A confrontation then took place, during which the man was assaulted.

Footage circulating on social media appears to show the teenager kicking the man multiple times to the body before being pulled away.

He is then seen returning and striking the victim, causing him to fall.

Police were later notified of the incident and launched an investigation.

In a post online, a family member said the incident has left the victim with bruised ribs and shaken his confidence, adding that he now feels uncertain about continuing one of his favourite daily routines – walking his dogs.

A spokesperson for Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary said:

“We were contacted at 18:45 on Wednesday (25 March) following a report that a 74-year-old man from Cowes had suffered injuries to his ribs and had been punched in the head during an assault earlier that afternoon.

“Following enquiries, a 14-year-old boy from East Cowes was arrested on suspicion of assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

“He has since been released on bail with conditions until 25 June while enquiries continue.”

The victim did not require hospital treatment and is recovering at home after suffering bruising to his ribs.