Rape arrest after woman, 40, attacked on Southsea Common

Police confirmed today a 19-year-old man arrested on suspicion of assaulting a 40-year-old woman on Monday night was re-arrested for rape.

The woman was treated at Queen Alexandra Hospital for a suspected broken cheekbone, and had bruises covering her legs, arms, back and face.

Hampshire police confirmed the assault probe yesterday but have today revealed it is now a rape investigation.

It comes after police were called to the common near the Ladies Mile between 9pm and 11.40pm on Monday.

Councillor Lee Hunt is community safety lead on Portsmouth City Council.

He said: ‘Thankfully the police have jumped into action and very quickly and someone has been arrested, and they're making their enquiries.

‘I certainly hope the woman concerned will be looked after properly, and I know she will - there's a lot of support for people when they're attacked.’

He added: ‘Thankfully these incidents are rare but people must keep their wits about them.’

Cllr Hunt warned violent crime is increasing in Portsmouth.

Police were still at the scene on Tuesday morning with a small area taped off.

Today a Hampshire police spokesman said: ‘We arrested a 19-year-old man on suspicion of serious assault and was subsequently further arrested on suspicion of rape.

‘He was questioned by officers and has since been released under investigation for both offences to allow for further enquiries.

'If anyone has any information in relation to this incident, they are asked to call 101 and quote 44200292589.’

Several officers were seen in the area on Tuesday morning photographing the scene.

Detectives will now be scouring CCTV footage and speaking with the alleged victim to ascertain what happened.

Specialist officers are trained in speaking with victims of sex crimes.

For support, call Portsmouth Abuse and Rape Counselling Service’s women’s helpline on (023) 9266 9511 or its men’s helpline on (023) 9266 9516.

The lines are open Monday 1pm-3pm, and Wednesday and Friday 7pm-10pm.

Call Aurora New Dawn’s helpline (023) 9247 9254.

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