A man has been arrested in connection with a report of attempted rape in North Tyneside. The arrest follows an investigation into an incident reported at around 8.45pm on Tuesday, October 27, in the St. Peter's Road area of Wallsend.
Police received a report that a woman had been sexually assaulted by a male she did not know. The suspect is reported to have threatened her before the assault and then fled the scene before police arrived.
Police presence and cordon at Burnside College
On Wednesday, a large police presence conducted proactive patrols in the area. A cordon was erected over a footpath next to Burnside College. Specialist search teams and the police dog unit remained at the scene throughout the day, joined by forensic officers.
At about 8pm yesterday, a man was arrested on suspicion of attempted rape and is currently in police custody. A police presence remains in the area today as officers carry out further enquiries. A woman in her 30s continues to be supported by specially-trained officers and has been updated on the development.
Detective's statement on the investigation
Detective Chief Inspector Chris Deavin, of Northumbria Police’s Safeguarding Department, said: "Since we first received this report on Tuesday evening, we’ve been working at speed to conduct enquiries so we could bring someone into custody."
He added: "Last night, officers tasked to conduct proactive patrols in response to this incident spotted a suspect and, as a result, he is currently in our cells and we’re working to verify his age at this time."
Det Ch Insp Deavin also noted the community concern: "We’re aware this report has caused great concern within the community – and as a Force, our response has reflected this." He confirmed there will be an increased police presence in some small areas of Wallsend today for further enquiries.
Appeal for information
Det Ch Insp Deavin reminded the public that all victim-survivors of sexual offences have the right to anonymity and should not be identified, given the social media discussion around the incident. He thanked anyone who contacted the force following the initial appeal and said updates will continue to be provided.
Anyone with information should send Northumbria Police a direct message on social media, use the live chat function on the Force’s website, or call 101, quoting crime reference number 26000482347.
