Shocking Allegation Rocks Hassocks
A 25-year-old man has been arrested after a 14-year-old girl reported being raped in Hassocks. The incident allegedly happened in the early hours of Thursday, 2 October, at a local address.
Sussex Police launched an immediate investigation once the report was made.
Suspect Arrested and Released on Bail
On Monday, 6 October, officers detained a man from Mid Sussex on suspicion of rape. He has since been interviewed and released on conditional bail while inquiries continue.
Victim Supported as Police Hunt for Answers
Detective Chief Inspector Steve Cobbett, leading the probe, confirmed specialist officers are backing the victim and her family. “We are pursuing a number of lines of enquiry to establish the full circumstances of what happened,” he said.
“From our investigation so far, we believe the victim and the suspect were known to each other prior to the incident.”
Community Reassured as Police Boost Presence
Police stressed they are not seeking anyone else and don’t believe there is any wider threat to the public.
Inspector David Derrick promised a visible police presence in Hassocks during the ongoing investigation.
“We understand that reports like this can cause concern in the community,” he said. “Residents may notice an increased police presence in the area as we continue to carry out our work.”
How to Help
Anyone with information is urged to contact Sussex Police online or call 101, quoting Operation Insight.
