A WOMAN who met a man outside the RBH was raped. Now police are appealing for witnesses to come forward.
The incident happened between 11pm and 11.25pm on Wednesday, November 22.
The victim, who is in her 40s, was approached by a man who asked her for a cigarette. They then went for a walk together.
When they were in an alleyway between Crown Street and St Giles Close, they kissed. While this was consensual, the man proceeded to rape her.
He is described as slim, black, around 6ft, and had short dark hair. He was wearing a long Parka style jacket that was dark.
Detective Inspector Bev Pearse of Reading CID said: “This is a concerning incident which has escalated from consensual kissing to an incident of rape.
“I am appealing to anybody who was in the area who witnessed the initial interaction between the offender and the victim, or who has seen anything out of the ordinary in the area to please contact Thames Valley Police.
“Similarly, if you have dash-cam footage from the around the time of the incident which has captured anything that may assist this investigation, please get in touch.”
DI Pearse said reports can be made by calling 101 and quoting reference number 43230526331, or calling independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
She continued: “No arrests have been made, and there is a scene-watch in place in the area of the incident and you will see an increased police presence in the area while this investigation continues.
“I fully appreciate incidents such as this cause concern in our community, but I would like to reassure the public we are investigating this as a top priority and if anybody has any concerns, please don’t hesitate to speak to any of our officers.”
