Police probing rapes in Reading launch public appeal for information after ‘linking the attacks’

Detectives have today sought to reassure terrified women and girls after launching a manhunt for a rapist believed to be behind a pair of connected attacks.

Thames Valley Police confirmed that two separate attacks in Reading, one on January 15, 2023 and the other on June 11, 2022, were potentially committed by the same person.

Extra officers have since been drafted in to patrol the streets of the town, and a public appeal has been launched to uncover further details on the attacker.

Officers are now appealing for information on the alleged rapist, who has been described as a slim black male, aged between 20 and 30, and possibly speaking with an African accent.

At the time of the latest attack, in Prospect Mews (pictured above) in the town centre, a woman aged in her 40s was raped in the early hours of Sunday January 15

At the time of the latest attack, the man was wearing a distinctive hooded puffer jacket and white trainers. 

One woman, aged in her 40s, was attacked in the town centre in the early hours of the morning of Sunday, January 15. 

Another rape, which took place at a residential property approximately three miles away on June 11, 2022, is also being probed in connection with the latest incident. 

Residents have been asked to check their CCTV cameras for any footage that might be relevant.

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Detective Inspector Laura Corscadden, of Reading CID, said ‘I understand that the linking of these two offences will cause significant concern in the community.

‘We are conducting a thorough and extensive investigation with significant resources and it is my priority to identify the suspect and safeguard the public.

Extra officers have since been drafted in to patrol the streets of the town (pictured above), and a public appeal has been launched to uncover fresh details on the attacker [file image]

‘The victims are also being supported by specially trained officers at this time.

‘I would also like to hear from anybody who may have been driving in the Oxford Road area between 1am to 2.30am on 15th January, specifically in the section of Oxford Road junction with George Street and Prospect Street and has a dash-cam to please check the recordings.’

Anyone with any relevant footage or information should contact Thames Valley Police by making a report the force’s website or by calling 101, quoting reference number 43230021084.

They can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111 or via its website.

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