Appeal following sexual assault in Stevenage

Detectives investigating the reported rape of a girl in Stevenage are appealing for witnesses and information.

The incident occurred at around 1130pm yesterday (Thursday 14 July), in Broadwater Crescent.

It was reported that the victim, a 14 year old girl, was walking past the alleyway near the Man In The Moon pub, when an unknown male approached her before sexually assaulting her.

The victim is being supported by specially trained officers.

Detective Inspector Michael Macbeth said: "I understand this will be hugely concerning to the local community, and I would like to reassure you that we are conducting extensive enquiries in order to identify the offender.

"The suspect was described as being of slim build, and around 5ft 9ins tall. He was said to have short brown hair and stubble, and was wearing grey Nike joggers, a black zipped up hoodie and white Nike trainers.

"If you believe you saw someone matching that description in the area around the time specified, please get in contact. If you were driving in the area around the time of the incident and have a dash cam, please check it and get in contact if you spot something that might help.

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"Alternatively, if you have any information, please get in touch with police as soon as possible. Even something that may seem relatively minor or insignificant could be vital to our investigation."

You can report information online at herts.police.uk/report, speak to an operator in their Force Communications Room via their online web chat atherts.police.uk/contact or call the non-emergency number 101, quoting crime reference 41/56457/22.

Anyone in Hertfordshire who has experienced sexual abuse or sexual violence can contact the Herts Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) for practical and emotional support.

The centre can arrange face-to-face support, sexual health referrals, and provide forensic medical examinations for those who want them.

This service is open to everyone – men, women and young people, no matter how long ago the abuse occurred.