Knifepoint sex attack: CCTV released

Detectives from Beds, Cambs and Herts Major Crime Unit have released CCTV images of a man wanted in connection with the attack on Thursday, February 21.

The incident began at 6.55pm when the victim in her late 20s was leaving the Shell Petrol Station in Poynters Road.

As she drove off the forecourt a man opened the passenger door of her dark grey 4x4 vehicle, got in, produced a knife and forced her to drive to Tomlinson Avenue.

An assault of a sexual nature took place shortly after 7pm, lasting approximately fifteen minutes – during which time the victim sounded her car horn, and managed to switch on the internal light.

Despite being petrified, the victim fought back, sustaining injuries to her head and hands.

She then drove to her family home where she contacted the police.

The offender is described as a white male, between 5ft 10ins and 6ft tall, of slim to medium build.

He wore dark trousers which possibly had a logo on them – or fluorescent markings – and short zips at the bottom on the outsides.

He was also wearing a dark hooded jacket with the hood up and pulled tight round his face.

Det Ins Ruth Dodsworth, investigating, said: “This was a terrifying experience for this lady to have to deal with yet she showed extreme bravery in fighting off her attacker and raising the alarm.

“The victim has been left truly devastated by what happened but has been courageous enough to share with officers exactly what happened during this ordeal and she continues to receive support from her family and specialist officers at this time.

“We have spoken with another woman who we have confirmed was approached by this same man two minutes before this incident, she had her car door locked so he was unable to gain entry to her vehicle.

“I would urge anyone who may have also been approached by a man matching the description to contact the police immediately.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to appeal to anyone who was in the area around the petrol station in Poynters Road to get in touch - in particular, were you the jogger who ran past the Shell petrol station at 6.52pm?

“You could have information vital to this investigation.

“Likewise, I’d like to hear from anyone who saw the dark grey 4x4 vehicle parked in Tomlinson

Avenue to also make contact with the police as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information relating to this incident can contact officers from the MCU, in confidence, on 01707 355959, or Beds Police on 101, or text information to 07786 200011.