POLICE hunting a man who assaulted a teenager and stole his pet lurcher have released an e-fit picture of the man they are searching for.
The incident happened three weeks ago in east Cleveland when a man driving a green Hyundai called at a house in Hazel Walk, Loftus. He persuaded the 18-year-old householder to go with him to an address in nearby Skinningrove, taking the teenager's lurcher with him.
The man, who spoke with an Irish accent, got out of the car at Liverton, near Bunnyland, because he wanted to see how fast the dog could run.
He then asked the young man to sell the dog to him and, when he refused, the teenager was punched in the face and the man drove off with the dog.
PC Claire Evans, who is dealing with the case, said the police had been given information which suggested that the man may be living in the Stokesley area. He is described as of large, muscular build, in his thirties and with short blond hair that was almost shaved. He was wearing a yellow fluorescent jacket, blue jeans and brown shoes.
Anyone with information is asked to call PC Evans on (01642) 326326.
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