Police Issue E-Fit Image of Bestival Rape Suspect

Following the report of the alleged rape of a 15 year Isle of Wight girl at Bestival, Police now release an e-fit image of the suspect. In their own words. Ed

Police are releasing an e-fit image of a man police wish to trace after a report of a sexual assault on a teenage girl on the Isle of Wight.

The 15-year-old girl told detectives she had been with friends in the main arena of the Bestival music festival at Robin Hill Country Park on Sunday, September 11, 2011 when she was approached by a man she did not know.

It’s alleged the man raped the girl sometime between 7.30pm and 8.30pm on Sunday, September 11, 2011 at the Bestival near the main arena.

Description of suspect
The man was described as:
> Black
> Aged in his 20s
> Approximately 6 ft tall
> Large muscular build
> Braided hair

He was wearing a white top with a navy blue collar and navy blue short sleeves, and wellington boots.

Do you know this man?
Police are continuing to appeal for witnesses who know this man or who may have seen someone matching this description walking with a teenage girl in or near the Bestival main area on the evening of Sunday, September 11, 2011.

Officers are also appealing to this man directly to make contact so the full circumstances can be established as soon as possible.

Treating with the utmost seriousness
A Hampshire Constabulary spokesman said: “We treat allegations of rape involving underage victims with the utmost seriousness. Police have officers and civilian staff with the specialist training and experience to provide care and support to victims.

“We’re in regular contact with the 15-year-old girl and her family to check on her welfare, and keep them informed about the progress of the investigation. Officers are particularly grateful for her time in helping us produce an e-fit image so soon after this distressing experience. Police also appreciate the co-operation of Bestival promoters who are assisting police with our ongoing enquiries.”

Get in touch
Witnesses or anyone with information is asked to contact Isle of Wight CID at Newport Police Station by phoning 101 or emailing [email protected].

From outside Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, call police on 0845 045 45 45. Mini-Com users can call the police on 01962 875000. Information can be given anonymously by calling the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.