Posters displayed in order to identify man as part of rape investigation

PCSO James Elford putting up posters in the area around where the incident took place
Author: Micky WelchPublished 19th May 2021

Police continuing to investigate a report of rape in Middlesbrough have been putting up posters in the area around where the incident is reported to have taken place, in a bid to trace a male they want to speak to.

The incident is reported to have happened around 7:30pm on Thursday 29th April on the footpath known as the black path which runs from Tees Barrage to Newport bridge, near to Maze Park Nature Reserve.

Rape Investigation Poster

A man, aged his forties, was walking along the path when he was approached by a male, pushed to the ground and raped.

Officers are still appealing to trace a man who they would like to speak to, as a potential witness, and have now displayed posters in the local area to try to identify him.

There have been a number of public appeals, which have received a good response from the public. However, the man in the image is yet to be spoken with.

Detective Sergeant Iain Pearson said: “We have now displayed posters in the area around where the incident took place, in a bid to try to identify the man in the image, who has not yet come forward or been identified.

PCSO James Elford putting up posters in the area around where the incident took place

“We would again like to appeal for the public’s assistance in identifying this man, as a potential witness to a very serious incident. Anyone who has information regarding this man is asked to get in touch with us on 101, or Crimestoppers.

“The victim continues to receive support from police and partner agencies as a result of the incident.”

The suspect is described as black, aged in his late thirties, around 5ft 10” tall, of stocky build with short, black hair and a prominent gap between his front upper teeth. He was clean shaven and spoke English but was not fluent. He was wearing dark clothing.

Any witnesses or anyone who may have information regarding the incident or the person responsible is asked to contact Cleveland Police on 101, quoting incident number 068313.

Independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111, or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

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