Police appeal after reported rape in Hartlepool

The incident is reported to have happened in the King Oswy Drive area of Hartlepool on Sunday, May 31, some time in the hours leading up to around 4am.

Officers are asking for the public’s help in identifying a man they would like to speak to.

He is described as white with a tanned complexion, in his 20s and between five-feet-six and five-feet-ten inches tall. He is further described as scruffy, unshaven and with short curly sideburns.

He was wearing a grey hoody with a motif on the front and the hood up, trainers and a black face mask.

Police said the victim has been offered support from specially trained officers while inquiries continue. Officers are assuring residents that this is believed to be an isolated incident, and that they currently have extra patrols in the area.

Anyone with information, or anyone with domestic CCTV or dashcam footage which could help police, is asked to phone Hartlepool CID via the 101 number. Please quote Event 87744.

People can also contact independent charity Crimestoppers via its website www.crimestoppers-uk.org or by phoning 0800 555 111.

If you have been a victim of rape or sexual abuse you can contact Teesside Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) for help and support, regardless of whether or not the offence has been reported to police.

SARC provides 24 hour crisis intervention and a range of options. SARC works in partnership with local specialist services (such as Barnardo’s, A Way Out and Arch) and can access support on your behalf. SARC crisis workers are available on 03333448283 at any time of day or night.

Contact details for SARC, A Way Out, Barnardo’s and Arch are as follows:SARC: www.sarcteesside.co.uk

A Way Out: http://www.awayout.co.uk

Barnardo’s: http://www.barnardos.org.uk

Arch: http://www.archnortheast.org

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