POLICE investigating an attempted rape of an 11-year-old girl in a Solihull park have released a suspect arrested earlier today (July 3) without charge – and have now provided a description of the offender.
The 35-year-old was detained in the early hours of this morning following information received as a result of an appeal issued yesterday afternoon.
But he has now been eliminated from enquiries.
The attack happened last Friday afternoon (June 29) at around 2.50pm, as the girl was walking through Babbs Mill Park on her way home from school.
The girl was allegedly knocked to the ground and suffered a cut to the neck from a knife.
She was taken to hospital and has since been discharged and is being supported by specially trained officers.
Police say the offender escaped after the assault, which happened at some time between 2.30pm and 2.50pm, and enquiries are underway to try to identify him.
A West Midlands Police spokesperson said: “He’s described as white, slightly tanned, with short brown/greying hair.
“He has blue eyes, large hands and a muscular, stocky build.
“The man was with a white King Charles spaniel, which had light brown patches on its ears and body.
“The dog had a red collar and red extendable lead.”
Police say a number of items have already been recovered for forensic testing and officers are also exploring another recent incident to see if it is connected.
Reassurance patrols have been stepped up in the area while investigations continue, and schools and the local authority are being kept informed of developments.
Chief inspector Colin Barnes, from Solihull Police, said: “The man arrested earlier today has been eliminated from our enquiries and we are continuing to appeal for information.
“While we do have extra patrols in the area and a large number of officers working on the investigation, the role the public plays in this remains crucial.
“We need the public to be our eyes and ears and to let us know of any piece of information that could help us track down the offender and bring them to justice.
“As we head towards the school holidays, we want to remind parents and youngsters to follow common sense advice to keep themselves safe.
“We’d ask all members of the public to be vigilant and be aware of their surroundings and personal safety.”
Anyone with information can call 101; quoting crime number 20SH/145636Y/18. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously in 0800 555 111.
