Second man arrested following rape of an 11-year-old girl
A second man has been arrested on suspicion of raping an 11-year-old girl in Portland, Dorset.
The man, a 22-year-old, was arrested on the evening of Saturday, September 7, and subsequently released on bail. He is assisting police enquiries, Dorset Police said.
The victim was with a 14-year-old friend when she met a male cyclist in the area of Easton Square at around 3am on Saturday, August 31.
The two girls and the cyclist then walked to the site of an old windmill where the offence is reported to have occurred.
An 18-year-old local man who was arrested on September 1 on suspicion of rape will face no further police action.
Detective Inspector Wayne Seymour of Dorset Police said: “I am satisfied as a result of our enquiries that the 18-year-old man who was arrested is not connected to this offence.
"Following a detailed and extensive investigation officers arrested a 22-year-old man on the evening of Saturday, September 7.
“We have updated the victim and her family with this development and she continues to be supported by specially trained officers.
“I would urge members of the public to refrain from speculation in relation to this incident, particularly on social media, as it could impact the ongoing investigation.
“Our investigation continues and I would like to reiterate our appeal for anyone who saw two girls with a male cyclist in the Easton area in the early hours of Saturday 31 August 2019, or who has any information that may assist our investigation, to please come forward.
“Again, I recognise this incident will have caused concern for the local community and our officers can be approached by anyone with concerns.”
