A MAN has been arrested on suspicion of rape after a woman was attacked in Darlington in the early hours.
Shortly after midnight, police were called to the grassed embankment just off St Augustine's Way, which leads to the River Skerne running past the rear of Halford's, after hearing reports of a woman in a distressed state.
Police say the woman, aged 38, told officers she had been dragged to the ground and punched in the face, which resulted in a bloody nose.
She was taken to hospital ro recieve medical treatment and is now recovering at home.
A 21-year-old man, who lives locally, has been arrested on suspicion of rape and is in custody at Darlington police station where he will be questioned later today.
Two police officers are guarding the scene behind Halfords next to the A167 ring road and forensics officers are conducting a search of the riverbank.
The officers were dressed in white overalls, their heads covered and were wearing masks.
The location of the cordon in the centre of Darlington. Picture: Google Maps
A spokesperson for Durham Police said: “Shortly after midnight last night police received calls from members of the public reporting a woman in a distressed state in St Augustine’s Way in Darlington.
“When officers arrived it was clear she had been physically assaulted and dragged to the ground.
“Within 15 minutes of police arriving at the scene a man matching the description of the suspect was arrested a short distance from the scene.
“The area of the alleged attack has been preserved so that a crime scene investigation can be carried out.”
Four incident markers were placed around a small area of the riverbank, with the officers on their knees processing evidence.
Det Sgt Sean Jackson said: “This was a very nasty physical and sexual assault which understandably has left the victim traumatised.
“I would like to hear from anyone who was in the area of St Augustine’s Way around midnight on Tuesday and has information which could help our enquiries.”
- Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 55511
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