12-y-o sexually assaulted

Investigators in Hanover are searching for a man who has been accused of sexually assaulting a 12-year-old girl last week.

Information reaching THE STAR is that the complainant was sent to a relative's house to use the Internet for online school. When the complainant did not return home for lunch at the usual time, her mother became concerned and tried calling her phone. There was no answer.

It is further reported that the relative was also unaware of the child's whereabouts. The mother then carried out a search in the community and later found the complainant in an abandoned house lying on her back with her dress up and without any underwear or tights, with the suspect standing over her with his shorts down.

Suspect ran

The mother reportedly cried out for help and the suspect ran, allegedly leaving behind his shirt, slippers, a knife and cell phone.

The items were recovered by the mother, who then made a report to the police after handing over the items. The child was taken to the Noel Holmes Hospital where she was examined. Several calls to Superintendent Sharon Beeput, the commanding officer for the Hanover police, went unanswered.

However, a representative from the police's Corporate Communications Unit informed THE STAR that the police have launched a manhunt for the suspect in question.

"The police are aware of the situation. A report has been made and investigations into the case and the accused's whereabouts are ongoing. We cannot divulge anymore information given the sensitive nature," the policewoman said.

Meanwhile, a 14-year-old boy has been charged with rape and sexual touching following an incident that occurred along Wellington Street in Kingston last Monday.

Reports are that about 4:30 p.m., the accused went to the complainant where he fondled her vagina and had sexual intercourse with her. A parent of the complainant caught the accused in the act and handed him over to the police. He was charged last Saturday. His court date is being finalised. - R.M.