Woman raped in Reading town centre
Police say a woman consented to being kissed but the offender proceeded to carry out a serious sexual assault
Police are appealing for witnesses after a rape in Reading.
Between 11pm and 11.25pm last night (22/11), the victim, a woman aged in her forties, met a male outside the Royal Berkshire Hospital, who has asked her for a cigarette.
She gave him a cigarette and then left with him.
They have walked to a nearby alleyway between Crown Street and St Giles Close, where they began consensual kissing before the offender proceeded to rape her.
The offender is described as a black man, around 6ft tall with a slim build and short dark hair.
He was wearing a dark, long Parka style jacket.
Detective Inspector Bev Pearse of Reading CID, said:
“This is a concerning incident which has escalated from consensual kissing to an incident of rape.
“I am appealing to anybody who was in the area who witnessed the initial interaction between the offender and the victim, or who has seen anything out of the ordinary in the area to please contact Thames Valley Police.
“Similarly, if you have dash-cam footage from the around the time of the incident which has captured anything that may assist this investigation, please get in touch.
“You can report online or by calling 101, quoting reference number 43230526331, or alternatively the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
“No arrests have been made, and there is a scene-watch in place in the area of the incident and you will see an increased police presence in the area while this investigation continues.
“I fully appreciate incidents such as this cause concern in our community, but I would like to reassure the public we are investigating this as a top priority and if anybody has any concerns, please don’t hesitate to speak to any of our officers.”