Initial reports say the victim, a 14-year-old girl, was sexually assaulted in Broadwater Crescent, near the Man In The Moon pub. Further enquiries have since established that the incident took place in the vicinity of the town centre, in Queensway.
“The victim is continuing to receive support from specially-trained officers,” Detective Inspector Michael Macbeth said. “I would like to publicly reassure both her and the local community that we are doing everything we can to progress this investigation, as well as commend her for her bravery in coming forward and reporting this to us.”
Following extensive investigations, an 18-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of rape on Tuesday night (July 26). He has since been released on bail while the investigation continues. At this point, it is believed that he is known to the victim, and the attack is no longer being treated as a stranger attack. The investigation is still ongoing, and we are still looking for anyone who believes they may have information that can help. Please contact the police as soon as possible if you have any information. Even something that appears to be minor or insignificant may be critical to our investigations.”
You can report information online at https:///orlo.uk/Lo7RC, speak to an operator in the Force Communications Room via web chat at https:///orlo.uk/CAzNn, or call 101, quoting crime reference 41/56457/22.
You can also remain anonymous by calling the independent charity Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 or filling out their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org.