Avon and Somerset Police have arrested a man in his 40s on suspicion of rape following a serious sexual assault on an 11-year-old girl near a playground in Bath. The suspect remains in police custody as investigations continue.
Incident Details
The assault occurred in a wooded area close to the Clarks Way playground in Odd Down, Bath, at approximately 5pm on Wednesday, June 24. Police described the attack as a "serious sexual assault" and have been investigating under Operation Bluestone, their dedicated rape and serious sexual offences team.
The arrest was made on Friday, July 3, a week after police issued a public appeal for information. The force confirmed the suspect is a man in his 40s, though earlier descriptions from witnesses indicated the offender was white, aged in his thirties or forties, and had a distinctive neck tattoo. He was reportedly wearing a t-shirt, shorts, and a cap at the time of the incident.
Police Investigation
Detectives have been reviewing CCTV footage and conducting house-to-house enquiries in the area. Detective Inspector Hannah Marsh stated: "This is an incredibly serious incident and significant resources are in place to support our investigation and we are prioritising efforts to identify the offender." She urged anyone with information to come forward.
The victim and her family are being supported by specially trained officers who continue to keep them updated. Marsh added: "Support will be in place for the victim for as long as it is needed, and we will keep her and her family updated as our investigation progresses."
Community Response
Neighbourhood officers have been carrying out extra patrols in the Odd Down area following the incident. Police have not yet released further details about the arrested man or any charges. The investigation remains ongoing.
