Sussex Police are appealing for witnesses after a teenager reported being raped in Brighton. Detectives believe people passing by may hold crucial information that could help the investigation.
Teenager Receiving Specialist Support
The alleged assault happened between the evening of Thursday, September 19, and the early hours of Friday, September 20.
The victim, a woman in her late teens, is being supported by specially trained officers while enquiries continue. Police have described the case as “fast-moving and complex” and say information from the public could be vital.
Key Witnesses Sought
Detectives want to trace several people who are thought to have approached the victim around the time of the incident.
They are particularly keen to hear from:
An e-scooter rider who may have passed the area.
A woman believed to have spoken with the victim.
Officers are asking anyone who saw or interacted with the young woman in Queen’s Road, Brighton, on the night of September 19 or the early hours of September 20 to come forward.
“Every Detail Could Matter”
Detective Inspector Matt Stevens said:
“This is a sensitive and urgent investigation. We know a number of people may have spoken with the victim or noticed her in the area. Even the smallest detail could help us piece together what happened.”
Public Appeals in Similar Cases
This is the latest in a series of public appeals Sussex Police have issued in serious sexual offence cases. Earlier this year, detectives investigating a rape in Bexhill Park released CCTV images of potential witnesses.
Police say cooperation from the community often plays a decisive role in securing evidence.
Community’s Role
Forensic work and specialist support continue behind the scenes, but investigators stress that witness accounts may be the key to progress.
Anyone who believes they saw something — no matter how trivial it seems — is urged to get in touch.
Online via the Sussex Police website, quoting reference 386 of 20/09
By phone on 101, using the same reference
Witnesses who prefer to remain anonymous can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers.
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