Police investigate rape allegation after Brighton Pride

An e-fit of a suspect Sussex Police is seeking after a teenager was raped in Brighton

The alleged assault happened in Brighton after the Pride celebrations in August but the girl did not contact police until October.

“Late on the evening of Saturday, August 1 this year, the girl, who comes from Worthing and had been visiting the event with friends, was on her own in Preston Park as the events there were winding down and people were dispersing,” said a police spokesman.

“She was engaged in conversation by a young man who asked her to help look for his mobile phone. She went with him along a tree-lined gravel track at the top of Preston Park, where he raped her.

“She also sustained bruising to her body but made her way home and did not tell the police about it until October 14.”

The suspect was described as white, aged between 18 and 24, between 5’6” and 6’, and of slim but muscular build, with a tanned complexion.

He was wearing a bright blue t-shirt and black jeans and had with him a grey or black hoody.

Detective Constable Holly Hallahan said: “If you were in or around Preston Park that Saturday evening any time between about 9pm and 11pm, and saw this man on his own or with a young girl, we would like to hear from you.

“If you can help please contact us via [email protected] or call 101, quoting serial 409 of October 14. “You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

“Since the girl came forward we have been ensuring that she has access to welfare and counselling support, and have been working carefully with her to build up a picture of what happened.

“This is an isolated and very serious incident and we are keen to speak to anyone who can help further.”

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