Appeal for key witnesses following reported rape of man in Exeter
Police are keen to speak to two couples who were in the area at the time of the incident
Last updated 7th Apr 2022
Police continue to appeal for key witnesses following the reported rape of a man which happened in Exeter in the early hours of Tuesday 29 March.
The incident is reported to have taken place on the grounds surrounding St Sidwell’s Church in Exeter sometime between 4.00am and 5.15am.
A 20-year-old man from the Exeter area was arrested on suspicion of rape and released on police bail until 18 April pending further enquiries.
Officers are keen to speak to any witnesses, in particular two couples who were in the area at the time of the incident.
Officer in Charge DC Caroline Robertson said: "The first couple, believed to be a male and a female, were walking from the direction of Exeter prison towards the Clock Tower on New North Road at around 2.45am to 3.00am.
"They were approached by a man near to the bus stop directly opposite the Clock Tower hotel. We would very much like to identify these people as they may be able to assist in our enquiries.
"The second couple we wish to speak to walked through St Sidwell’s churchyard from the Sidwell Street entrance exiting the churchyard towards King William Street at around 4.00am. We believe the female was wearing bunny ears.
"Lastly, a group of three people were outside the Next store on Exeter High Street at around 5.00am. Was this you? If so, please get in touch.
"There wouldn’t have been much foot traffic at the time of the morning, so we are asking anyone who was on foot in that area around that time to make contact with us."
DC Caroline Robertson - Devon & Cornwall Police
Anyone with any information is asked to contact 101@dc.police.uk quoting crime reference CR/026317/22.
Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling freephone 0800 555111.