Rape, Rougemont Gardens in Exeter

Police have arrested a man in connection to a rape that took place last weekend in Exeter.

An investigation was launched after it was reported that a man in his 30s was raped in Rougemont Gardens area of Exeter, at around 3am on Saturday 23 October.

Late yesterday (Monday 25 October), a 38-year-old man from Exeter has been arrested on suspicion of rape and remains in police custody.

Lead officer Detective Inspector Emma LeFort said: “We are appealing for witnesses following a rape that took place in Exeter over the weekend.

“The attack took place behind Exeter Library in Rougemont Gardens. We believe that following the attack, the suspect fled the area whilst being pursued and members of the public attempted to stop him near the Tesco’s Metro on the High Street.

“The suspect managed to escape down St Martins Lane heading in the direction of Exeter Cathedral.

“If you were in the City Centre between 2:50-3:30am, notably in the areas of Gandy Street; Rougemont; The Cathedral or were one of the members of public who attempted to intervene, it is essential that we hear from you as you could hold information vital to our investigation.”

If you have any information that can aid police with this investigation, please contact 101 or 101@dc.police.uk quoting crime reference CR/092294/21.

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