An alleged home invasion and attempted rape of a Kawerau
teenager last month never happened, police say.
A major investigation was launched after police were told a
16-year-old girl had been awoken by an intruder in her
bedroom soon after midday on August 1.
The girl alleged the man grabbed her, pinned her to her bed
and attempted to rape her before she fought back, kicking him
and forcing him to flee the house.
Police confirmed to the Whakatane Beacon they would no longer
be investigating the alleged incident and the matter had been
referred to the youth aid section for a recommendation
regarding the complainant.
Acting Eastern Bay area commander Inspector Anna Jackson said
information came to light several days into the inquiry which
indicated that the incident had not occurred.
Ms Jackson said this was then confirmed by the girl.
"Whenever an allegation of this nature is made, police will
always take it seriously, as we did in this case.
"An alleged incident of this kind is distressing for everyone
involved -- including the wider community.
As a result, we had an extensive team working on the inquiry,
with up to 15 investigators, as well as members of Kawerau
police actively involved.
"While we are pleased that the case is resolved and the
community can feel reassured, at the same time this was
clearly a cry for help of a different kind from a young
person.
"Part of our focus through the youth aid section will be to
ensure that she has the help she needs."
Bookmark/Search this post with:
A name, residential address, and (preferably residential) telephone number is required from readers who comment on ODT Online. These details will not be visible to site visitors.