Officers from Port Stephens-Hunter Police District were contacted after a 13-year-old girl disclosed she had been assaulted while she was walking on Thomas Coke Drive, Thornton, about 4.45pm on Thursday July 4.

Earlier this month, the matter was referred to detectives from the State Crime Command's Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad for further investigation.

After speaking with the girl, detectives were told she was followed by about six males and pushed to the ground near the intersection of Thomas Coke Drive and John Arthur Avenue.

The girl further disclosed one of the males sexually touched her, before she was able to run away.

Investigators are now appealing to the community for assistance to identify the six males, who may be able to assist with the investigation.

They are all described as being in their late teens, wearing baggy jeans and riding BMX push bikes.

Detectives are also urging anyone who was in the area at the time who may have seen the incident, specifically a man who was walking his dog near the Alan & Don Lawrence Oval, to come forward.

The man is described as having an olive complexion, aged between 40 and 50, with dark hair and a long well-kept beard. He was walking a brown border collie cross German sheppard.

Anyone with information should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

The Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad is comprised of detectives who are specially trained to investigate matters against children and adults, including sexual assault, serious physical abuse, and extreme cases of neglect.

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