Rape Crime Unit investigates assault on teenager in Co Down

Detectives from the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s (PSNI) Rape Crime Unit have launched an investigation following the sexual assault of a teenage girl in Downpatrick on Tuesday morning.

The incident occurred shortly after 8.30am on 24 June in the Samson’s Lane area, located off the Ardglass Road in the County Down town.

Local District Commander, Superintendent Norman Haslett, issued a statement in response to the distressing crime, seeking to reassure the community and urge potential witnesses to come forward.

“I want to reassure the community that a dedicated, skilled and specialist trained team of Detectives are working at pace to support the victim of this crime and to progress the investigation,” said Superintendent Haslett.

An appeal for information has been launched as part of the ongoing inquiry. Police are urging anyone who was in the area on Tuesday morning or who may have relevant information to contact officers directly.

“I would appeal to anyone who may have been in the area yesterday morning, or who has any information that could help our investigation, no matter how insignificant it may seem, to please bring it to us by calling 101, quoting reference 353 24/06/25 or online, the Superintendent added.

For those who prefer to remain anonymous, information can also be provided via the independent charity Crimestoppers, by calling 0800 555 111 or visiting crimestoppers-uk.org.

To provide community reassurance, the PSNI has also confirmed an enhanced police presence in the vicinity in the coming days.

“I want to further reassure the community that there will be a noticeable increase in police patrols in the area in the coming days and weeks,” said Superintendent Haslett.