Hampshire police release man, 58, from investigation over attempted rape near Havant stream

No further action is being taken against a 58-year-old man, who was arrested as part of the investigation into the attempted rape that was reported in December last year.

On Friday, December 3, 2021, at about 7.15pm, a man attempted to rape a woman near to Hermitage Stream, by Purbrook Way.

The woman, who is now 22, managed to run away.

Officers arrested a 58-year-old man from Havant on suspicion of attempted rape shortly after, but he has now been removed from the investigation following ‘extensive’ forensic analysis, according to a spokeswoman from Hampshire Constabulary.

The spokeswoman said: ‘Officers are continuing enquiries, while local policing teams patrol the local area, speaking to residents about any concerns or information they may have.

‘We are still keen to hear from anyone who recognises the below description of a man we would like to speak to in connection with this incident: White, aged in his 40s to 50s, approximately 6ft tall, of stocky build, wearing a dark coloured West Ham beanie hat, a dark waterproof jacket that went down to his mid-thighs, jeans, and leather gloves.’

Commenting shortly after the report of the incident last year, a detective said that the attacker was likely left ‘in a wet and muddy condition’ following the attempted assault.

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 quoting reference number 44210485629.

Alternatively, anyone with information can submit information via www.hampshire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/cor/tell-us-about-existing-case-report.

Information can also be submitted anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.