Witness appeal following alleged rape in St Albans

Police are appealing for information and witnesses following an alleged rape in St Albans.

The incident occurred within Jersey Farm Woodland Park on Sandringham crescent at around 3.30pm and 4.30pm on Thursday 6 April.

It is reported that the 16-year-old boy was walking through the park before they were approached by the offender, who hit him over the head with a large object and then raped him.

Specialist detectives are supporting the victim as our enquiries continue.
Detective Constable Natalie Bannister said: “This was an incredibly difficult experience for the victim to deal with who is being supported by specialist teams.

“Due to the traumatic nature of the incident, the victim did not feel able to report the incident immediately.

“Because of the unusual circumstances, we are appealing to the public at this stage as part our extensive enquiries ongoing regarding the incident. If you remember seeing someone acting suspiciously around the area at the time, please contact police.

“If anyone has information, no matter how big or small you think it is, please contact me.

Anyone with information is asked to please email Detective Constable Natalie Bannister.

Chief Inspector Ady Lysak said: “St Albans has a strong community, and I am hopeful that someone out there has information about this terrible incident.

“I want to reassure the victim that we are doing all we can to investigate, and I urge anyone who has information to report it.

You can also report information online, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101, quoting crime reference 41/39318/23. Always dial 999 in an emergency. 

Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form (opens in a new window).