Woman raped in wooded area near Wareham

Dorset Police received a report at around midday on 7 August that an 18-year-old woman had been raped by an unknown man in a wooded area off a country lane, which leads from Bindon Lane toward Woodstreet Farm and the B3071.

The incident occurred sometime between 10.30am and 11.30am as the woman was cycling along the road. She said a car approached her from behind, causing her to lose her balance and fall off.

As she got up, she noticed the driver of the car had got out of his vehicle. He then guided her into a wooded area where he sexually assaulted and raped her.

The vehicle is described as a small black four-door car.

The offender is described as white, taller than six feet, of skinny build and with dark hair. He was aged in his 40s and had rotten teeth. He wore black jeans, a black T-shirt, black trainers and black underwear.

The victim was discovered by members of the public shortly after the incident and they helped her raise the alarm.

Detectives from Dorset Police’s Major Crime Investigation Team (MCIT) are leading the investigation.

DI Mark Jenkins, said, “This man subjected his victim to a terrifying ordeal, which has left her understandably extremely distressed. She is currently being supported by specially-trained officers.

“I would like to reassure members of the public that we are carrying out a detailed investigation into this offence in a bid to identify this man.

“This incident occurred on a relatively quiet country road but I understand it is very popular with dog walkers. I would urge anyone who was in the Bindon Lane area at the relevant time and saw a man or car matching the description given to contact Dorset Police immediately.

“I am particularly interested in speaking to dog walkers who were in the area and may have important information that could assist our enquiry. This includes anyone walking a Schnauzer in that vicinity and a man wearing shorts and a T-shirt who was with a chocolate brown-coloured greyhound. If this was you or you know who it might have been please call us.

“Finally, I would appeal to any motorists who were travelling in the area between 10am and midday on Tuesday 7 August and may have captured the offender, his vehicle or the victim on dashcam to please come forward. If you live nearby and have CCTV at your property please contact us.

“There will be an increased police presence and cordons in the area as the scene is examined and enquiries are carried out. Officers from the local neighbourhood policing team will be carrying out high visibility patrols over the coming days and can be approached with any concerns.”

Post updated on 10 August 2018:
A 51-year-old man from Bournemouth was arrested on 8 August on suspicion of rape. He has been released under investigation while enquiries continue. Detectives are continuing to appeal for anyone with information about the reported incident, who has not already spoken to the them, to come forward. Call 101 and quote incident number 7:200.

Post updated on 16 August 2018:
Detective Inspector Mark Jenkins, of MCIT, said: “We have carried out a full and very detailed investigation into this report.

“Following our enquiries, which have involved speaking to the woman, the arrested man and witnesses, we have established that the man and the woman were known to each other and that no offences were committed. As a result the 51-year-old man who was arrested will face no further police action and has been released without charge.

“Specially-trained officers are continuing to liaise with the woman and will ensure she is given access to receive the appropriate support.”