A 14-year-old boy has been arrested in connection with the alleged rape of a 15-year-old girl outside Chertsey Library in Surrey, police confirmed Wednesday.
The arrest comes nearly two weeks after the reported attack, which Surrey Police said occurred around 7pm on Friday, June 27. The teenage suspect remains in custody while investigations continue.
Inspector Ian Nash, who is leading the investigation, urged the public to exercise caution when discussing the case online. “I would ask people to remain mindful of what they post online about this as it is a live case with active legal proceedings underway,” he said in a statement.
Details of Alleged Attack
Surrey Police said the 15-year-old victim was with a friend when they were approached by two males near the library. One of the males allegedly assaulted the girl in what police described as an “extremely concerning” incident.
The force had previously released a CCTV image on social media showing a person they wished to speak to in connection with the investigation. The suspect was initially described as a teenager with slicked back blonde hair, wearing a white jumper, blue jeans and white trainers.
Detective Sergeant Mihai Kerekes, who initially led the investigation, said: “Incidents of this nature are extremely concerning, and we want to reassure the public that a full investigation is underway to identify the person involved.”
Community Concerns
The arrest follows intensive police work in the area, including house-to-house enquiries and examination of CCTV footage from nearby businesses. Officers have been visible in the Chertsey area conducting investigations since the incident was reported.
Borough Commander Ian Nash acknowledged the impact on the local community, stating: “We understand the concern this incident may cause within the local community, and we are committed to providing appropriate updates as the investigation progresses.”
The inspector emphasized the need to protect the integrity of the investigation and any future court proceedings, warning against speculation on social media that could prejudice the case.
Broader Context
The incident has heightened concerns about safety in the area, particularly as it represents one of two reported stranger rape cases in Chertsey this year. In March, police investigated another reported rape near Chertsey Bridge, though that case has since concluded following extensive enquiries.
Speaking about both incidents, Inspector Nash sought to reassure residents that such cases remain rare. Stranger rape is thankfully a rare occurrence,” he said, while acknowledging the understandable concern among local residents.
Police confirmed they conducted extensive investigations in the March case, including gathering all available CCTV, pursuing forensic opportunities, conducting house-to-house enquiries and issuing witness appeals before the case concluded.
Ongoing Investigation
Surrey Police continue to appeal for witnesses who may have been in the area around Chertsey Library on the evening of June 27. Anyone who saw anything suspicious is urged to contact police via 101 or report online quoting reference PR/45250077899.
The force confirmed that appropriate safeguarding measures are in place for all parties involved in the investigation. Given the ages of those involved, police are working closely with youth justice services and following all relevant protocols for cases involving minors.
Inspector Nash said he would continue to provide “further appropriate updates to the public” as the investigation progresses, while maintaining the necessary legal boundaries around discussing an active case.
Public Response
The case has prompted discussions about safety measures around public spaces, particularly libraries and other community facilities frequented by young people. Local authorities have not announced any immediate changes to security arrangements but are understood to be reviewing safety protocols.
Parents and community groups have expressed concern about the incident, with some calling for increased CCTV coverage and better lighting around public buildings. However, police have cautioned against overreaction, emphasizing that such incidents remain extremely rare.
The arrest represents a significant development in the investigation, though police stress that enquiries remain ongoing. No charges have been filed at this time, and the arrested teenager’s identity cannot be disclosed due to his age and legal protections for minors in criminal proceedings.
Information can also be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Police continue to urge anyone with relevant information to come forward to assist with their investigation.
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