Police arrest man in connection with horrific Leazes Park rape

A man has been arrested in connection with a reported rape that took place at Leazes Park on April 1.

Northumbria Police detectives are investigating the incident in which a woman reported she was raped by an unknown man in the popular Newcastle park near the basketball and tennis courts, close to the Leazes Crescent entrance at around 6:30 pm.

An investigation was immediately launched by Northumbria Police’s Safeguarding unit and the victim continues to be supported by specially-trained officers.

Extensive enquiries have been ongoing, including a review of CCTV and additional patrols, and on the evening of Tuesday, April 13, a 34-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of rape.

He remains in police custody at this time, assisting with enquiries.

Detective Chief Inspector Alan Cairns, who is leading the investigation, once again urged anyone who thinks they have information to come forward.

He said: “Our teams have been working round the clock since this report first came in, and I am pleased to confirm we have now made an arrest.

“While this is a positive development, I would like to stress that our investigation remains ongoing and officers will continue with a range of enquiries. We would ask that anyone with information who is yet to come forward, gets in touch.

“We will continue to support the victim at this difficult time and I would like to thank her for her continued cooperation. We have already had an overwhelming amount of support and contact from the public and I would like to thank our communities for their assistance at this time.

“We will continue to have an increased police presence in the area so if you have any concerns or information, please speak to an officer.

“We are committed to doing all we can to support the victim while bringing the person responsible to justice.”

As officers continue to appeal for information they are again releasing a description of the suspect.

He is described as being in his early 30s, about 5ft 10ins tall, of medium build, with curly mousey brown hair which was shaved at the sides and long on top, with a black beard.

He was well spoken with a local accent. He was wearing grey joggers and a grey leather jacket with a fur collar, over a dark blue Nike T-shirt with a large white tick. He was also carrying a large green rucksack with black stripes.

Anyone who has any information is asked to contact police via the Tell Us Something pages of the Northumbria Police website or contact 101 quoting reference NP-20220401-1038 or contact independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.