A 16 year old boy has been arrested

Detectives at Nottinghamshire Police have earlier today have made an arrest following a serious sexual assault that occurred in an alleyway off St Mary’s Gardens, Newark, at around 7.45pm on Thursday (28 December 2023). 

Following inquiries, a 16-year-old boy was today (30 December) arrested on suspicion of rape and remains in Police custody for questioning.

Detective Inspector Stuart Barson, of Nottinghamshire Police, said:

“The victim and her family have been informed of this development and continue to be supported by specially-trained officers.

“Although we have arrested a suspect, this remains an ongoing investigation and I would ask anyone with information who is yet to come forward to please do so now.

“While these types of incidents are thankfully rare, I appreciate this incident has caused concern in the local community. However, I would like to reassure residents that we do believe this was an isolated incident and would encourage anyone with concerns to speak to one of our officers.”                                                 

Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is asked to call Nottinghamshire Police on 101, quoting incident number 666 of 28 December 2023, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.