Fourth man arrested in runner sexual assault case

A fourth man has been arrested and released under investigation after a woman reported being sexually assaulted while on her morning run.

The victim said she was on a pathway off Iliffe Way in Stowmarket, between 05:45 GMT and 06:00 on 19 November, when she was pulled to the ground and attacked.

Suffolk Police previously arrested three men on suspicion of sexual assault and attempted rape, and one woman on suspicion of assisting an offender.

The force has now confirmed it arrested another man last month, a 36-year-old from Norwich, on suspicion of sexual assault and attempted rape, before releasing him on bail.

"He was taken to Wymondham Police Investigation Centre for questioning and was subsequently released on bail until 8 June, pending further enquiries," a police spokesperson said.

The latest arrest comes after the police first arrested a 38-year-old man before releasing him without charge two days later.

Officers then went on to arrest a 35-year-old man, who was bailed until 2 June, and a 26-year-old man, who was released on bail until 25 June.

A 50-year-old woman was also arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender but was released under investigation.

An e-fit image, produced with the help of the victim, was released to the public as part of an investigation on 26 November.

Police said at the time of the attack, a man at the scene was wearing a dark beanie hat, a thick, dark rain jacket and dark trousers, and smelt strongly of cigarettes and cannabis.

He was also described as being white, about 5ft 10in (1.8m) tall, of a medium build.

"The victim continues to be supported by specialist trained officers and has been assisting detectives with their enquiries," a police spokesperson added.

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