Girl, 11, "seriously sexually assaulted" near Bath playground as rape suspect arrested
A man has been arrested on suspicion of rape after an 11-year-old girl was allegedly attacked near a playground.
Avon and Somerset Police said the child was the victim of a "serious sexual assault" in a wooded area close to the Clarks Way playground in Odd Down, Bath, at around 5pm on Wednesday (June 24).
Officers confirmed the man, in his 40s, was arrested on Friday, a week after the force issued a public appeal.
A spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police told SomersetLive: "A man in his 40s was arrested yesterday on suspicion of rape and he remains in police custody. Our investigation continues."
Last week, police said in a statement on June 25: "Specialist detectives are appealing for witnesses after an 11-year-old girl was the victim of a serious sexual assault in the Odd Down area of Bath on Wednesday 24 June. The incident took place in a wooded area near the Clarks Way playground at about 5pm.
"An investigation is underway, led by our rape and serious sexual offences team Operation Bluestone, and detectives are working to identify the offender.
"Officers continue to review all available CCTV footage and have also been carrying out house-to-house enquiries in the area. The victim and her family are being supported by specially trained officers who continue to keep them updated."
Detective Inspector Hannah Marsh said at the time: "This is an incredibly serious incident and significant resources are in place to support our investigation and we are prioritising efforts to identify the offender.
"I would urge anyone who saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area around the time of the incident, or anyone who matches the description provided, to contact us.
"Support will be in place for the victim for as long as it is needed, and we will keep her and her family updated as our investigation progresses.
"Neighbourhood officers are carrying out extra patrols in the area today and these will continue over the coming days."
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