Police wind down investigation into 2013 Sockburn assault

Wednesday, 19 March 2014 - 4:04pm

Canterbury

Christchurch Police are winding down the investigation into the stranger attack on a young woman in Sockburn, Christchurch, last September.

Detective Senior Sergeant Darryl Sweeney says a comprehensive criminal investigation has been carried out since the attack, which occurred at a Middlepark Road address on the morning of 24 September 2013.

"Police have carried out detailed and wide-ranging inquiries over several months," Detective Senior Sergeant Sweeney says.

"The investigation has now been reviewed and with no current information to further the inquiry, the case will remain open pending future suspect nominations.

"A final round of forensic analysis and testing will be undertaken.

"The CIB will continue to collate any information that comes to the attention of the investigation team. We will also continue assessing any future activity or crimes for comparison in an effort to solve this crime.

"The victim in this case has been well supported by her family and by Victim Support, and we have discussed the status of the investigation with her."

Police are now releasing a computer-generated image of the suspect, completed after the attack. The image was not released at the time as investigators were unsure of its accuracy and did not want to restrict potential lines of inquiry.

The suspect was described at the time as a Maori or Polynesian, aged in his late 40s, tall and of stocky build, with a large nose with some red markings, a slightly bushy moustache and dark, mop-like hair almost to his eyebrows and covering his ears. He was believed to be missing one or two teeth on one side of his mouth.

If anyone recognises this person or someone of a similar description please contact the Christchurch Police 03 3637400.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Christchurch police on (03) 3637400. Information can also be provided anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

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