CCTV released in Hastings rape investigation

Detectives investigating the rape of a 17-year-old girl in Hastings have released a CCTV image of a man who they believe can help with their enquiries.

The incident happened in an alleyway in Hastings town centre around 1.30am on Sunday, 11 May, the man is not believed to be known to the girl.

He is described as around 5’10” to 5’11”, athletic build, aged late 20s to early 30s, with a full, neat, pointy beard.

Detective Inspector Carol Shoesmith, from the Hastings Investigations Team, said: "We have been carrying out detailed enquiries into this incident and specialist officers have been supporting the victim.

“We have recently been able to obtain further details of the incident and are releasing CCTV images of a man we would like to identify as part of our investigation. I would urge anyone who recognises him to please contact Sussex Police immediately.

"While we believe this was an isolated incident, we appreciate that this will cause concern among the local community and in addition to a dedicated investigation team, we have increased patrols in the area since this was reported to provide visibility and reassurance. If you have any information, no matter how small, that you think may help us, please get in contact”.

Anyone with information can report online or call 101 quoting Operation Galloway.