Sussex Police have confirmed that an alleged rape reported to have taken place in Bognor’s Hotham Park last month did not occur.
The report was made by a woman who contacted officers alleging she had been raped overnight between April 20 and 21 in the area surrounding the popular town park.
Following the report, officers launched a thorough investigation, deploying significant resources to gather evidence and support the woman involved.
However, after extensive enquiries, it was concluded that no such incident had taken place. The woman has since formally withdrawn her allegation.
Sussex Police have confirmed that enquiries are now ongoing into a possible offence of perverting the course of justice in connection with the incident.
Detective Chief Inspector Steve Cobbett said:
“A significant amount of police resource was utilised over a number of days to investigate this allegation, before it became clear that no offence had been committed.
“This demonstrates our commitment to listening and investigating all reports of sexual offences, and that any such allegations will be taken extremely seriously.
“We continue to urge anyone who has been a victim or witness to a crime to report it online or call 101. In an emergency, dial 999.”
Support for victims of rape and serious sexual offences remains a priority, and Sussex Police continue to offer information and guidance via their official website.
