Man Arrested After Teenage Girl Allegedly Abducted and Sexually Assaulted in Church Yard

Published by Robert L Senior Reporter on Saturday 29th March 2025, at 09:00hrs

A 19-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of sexual assault and kidnapping following a harrowing incident in the grounds of St Andrew and St Cuthman Church in Vicarage Lane, Steyning.

Officers responded to reports that a teenage girl was sexually assaulted at approximately 9 am on Thursday, March 27th, sparking an immediate and intensive investigation.

The victim, a teenage girl, is currently receiving support from specialist officers, while the suspect remains in police custody.

Detective Inspector Andrew Ricks, leading the investigation, stated,

“This is a fast-moving investigation and we have been working around the clock to establish the circumstances and to locate and detain the suspect.

We understand that members of the public may be alarmed and worried by this incident.

We have an enhanced police presence in the area so please speak to one of those officers if you have any concerns.”

Police are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information, including relevant CCTV or dashcam footage, to come forward.

Witnesses are asked to report online or phone 101, quoting Operation Corfe.

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