Man Sought After 17-Year-Old Boy Raped At St Leonards Address

Police are seeking to identify a man in connection with enquiries following a report of a rape at an address in St Leonards.

The victim, a 17-year-old boy, was initially approached by a man at a bus stop near Asda in Battle Road at approximately 11.30pm on 30 January, it is reported that the suspect and victim then walked together in the direction of Lidl in Bohemia Road.

The suspect is described as a white man aged about 40-years-old, bald with a goatee and wearing glasses.

The victim is continuing to receive specialist support as the investigation continues.

Detective Inspector Barry Chandler said:

“A thorough investigation is underway with officers continuing to carry out extensive enquiries to establish any further information, and potential witnesses.

“If you recognise this man or were in the vicinity of Asda in Battle Road, or Lidl in Bohemia Road, on the night of 30 January and have any information to assist this investigation, please report it to us.

"Any information, no matter how small could be crucial to this investigation.

“We recognise the concern this report may cause and would like to reassure the community that public safety is our top priority.

"Officers will be patrolling the area and there will continue to be an increased police presence as the investigation progresses.”

Anyone who recognises this man, or who has any relevant information including CCTV or doorbell footage is encouraged to contact us online, or by calling 101 quoting serial 554 of 31/01.