Woman Sexually Assaulted

7 March 2011, 14:29 | Updated: 9 March 2011, 15:41

POLICE are appealing for witnesses and information following a sexual assault in Hatfield on Tuesday, March 1.

In the early hours of the morning an 18-year-old girl got into a car at the taxi rank outside The Forum. There was another woman in the front passenger seat at the time and this lady was dropped off somewhere in Hatfield before the 18 year old was held against her will in the car and sexually assaulted.

The vehicle is described as a Green Coupe BMW with a '56' plate.

Detective Constable Ruth Povey is investigating and said: "I would like to appeal to anyone who saw the woman get into the car, anyone who saw the vehicle driving around the Hatfield area that night with two or three people in, or anyone who has any information which would assist the investigation to contact police. I would also like to make a direct appeal to the lady who was in the front passenger seat to contact police and to anyone who believes they were approached by the offender. Understandably people may have concerns about what has happened but I would like to reassure members of the public that incidents of this nature are not a common occurrence in Hatfield. I would also like to take this opportunity to remind people to consider their personal safety when out and about at night."

A 19-year-old man from London has been arrested in connection with the investigation and has been released on police bail.

Anyone with information is asked to contact DC Povey on 0845 3300 222 quoting crime reference number B2/11/769. Alternatively call Crimestoppers, an independent charity, anonymously. You do not have to give your name and you could be entitled to a cash reward.

Hertfordshire Constabulary offers the following advice:

  • Buddy up - if you go out with a group of friends make sure you go home with them too. Plan how you will get home before you go out. Take the number of a reputable taxi company with you.
  • Keep some extra cash in a separate place in case your wallet or purse is stolen (for phone calls or a taxi)
  • Avoid going home or getting a lift with someone you've just met (especially if they've been drinking alcohol or using drugs)
  • If you must walk home - walk in groups and not on your own. Keep to well-lit areas and main roads avoiding shortcuts, alleys or parks.