Two teenage boys charged with Fordingbridge rape

Officers investigating a report of a serious sexual assault on a 14-year-old girl, which occurred on land adjacent to Fordingbridge Recreation Ground, have now charged two teenage boys.

A 14-year-old boy from Fordingbridge has been charged with rape, threats to kill, possession of a knife blade / sharp pointed article in a public place and kidnap / falsely imprison a person with intent to commit a relevant sexual offence.

A second 14-year-old boy from Fordingbridge has been charged with rape, threats to kill and kidnap.

The pair, who cannot be named for legal reasons, appeared at Southampton Youth Court yesterday (Tuesday 21 January).

They were further remanded in custody, to next appear at Southampton Crown Court on Friday 31 January.

A third boy, a 13-year-old from Romsey, who was also arrested in connection with the incident, has since been released on conditional police bail, pending further enquiries.

Police were called at 10.41pm on Friday 17 January, however the incident is suspected to have occurred earlier in the evening. The girl continues to be supported by specialist officers.

Senior Investiigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Jody Beresford, said: "We will always listen and take reports of this nature very seriously. We know that the local community will be concerned, but we want to reassure you that we have taken robust and swift action to detain and charge two people in connection with the incident.

"We want to show the local community that no matter the circumstances, we are committed to delivering the best possible service that we can to victims of rape and other sexual offences; ensuring they have access to the correct level of information and support needed by our specially-trained officers and third-party organisations.

"We would ask that the public do not speculate about the circumstances, or about those involved, on social media as this could have a significant detriment on the forthcoming court proceedings.

"If you have any concerns in the local community, please do speak to local officers when they are out on patrol in the local area.”