Man, 26, arrested after woman allegedly raped in Northallerton

Police were called to a property in the town on Thursday (May 28) to reports that a woman had been sexually assaulted. 

North Yorkshire Police launched a “high profile” search of the area on Thursday evening and arrested a white, British 26-year-old from County Durham. He remains in custody.

A man in his 40s and a man in his 20s were also arrested in connection yesterday morning, but have been released with no further action and eliminated from the investigation. 

The force said the victim is being offered specialist support following the incident.

Inspector Rory Sadler, of Hambleton Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “This has been a hugely distressing incident for the victim and has caused alarm in the wider community.

“It’s been a fast-moving investigation and there will continue to be a visible police presence in the area to reassure concerned residents.

“I’d like to provide some clarity about rumours circulating in the community. 

“A white British man from the Durham area has been arrested in connection with this incident. 

“I’m aware there is some speculation about links to a separate burglary in the Hambleton area. However, I can confirm police are treating these incidents as unrelated.

“I’d also stress that the incident in Northallerton is isolated and we are not looking for anyone else as part of our investigation.”