A manhunt has been launched after a teenage girl was allegedly raped in broad daylight. Investigating police officers are urging people with information on the reported attack to come forward as soon as possible.
The girl, 17, was allegedly approached by an unknown man in Hassocks, West Sussex, last Thursday evening (October 2). The reported rape took place in Keymer Road, near the junctions with Parklands Road and Grand Avenue, at some time between 6pm and 7.30pm. Officers are now asking residents to check their CCTV footage in a bid to identify the suspect.
As reported by the Daily Mail, a resident described the situation as “really worrying”. She was asked for doorbell footage from last Thursday evening and the early hours of Friday morning.
She said: “The police wanted to see anything the camera recorded on Thursday evening and between 4am and 5am on Friday morning.
“It’s broad daylight at that time in the evening, then it’s really early in the morning. I don’t understand what that could be about.”
The force has confirmed there will be an “increased police presence” in the village while investigation work takes place. Specially trained officers are supporting the victim.
Detective Inspector Debbie Birch, leading the investigation for Sussex Police, said: “We are supporting the victim as we actively carry out detailed enquiries, which include CCTV and house-to-house enquiries.
“We have increased our police presence in the village while we investigate, and we are carrying out additional high-visibility patrols for reassurance. Anyone who has any concerns is urged to stop and talk to officers.
She added: “If you were in the area and noticed anything suspicious or have information that may assist us, we ask you to contact police or on 101, and quote Operation Insight. We will provide updates about the investigation when possible.”