A 59-year-old man has been arrested following an alleged sexual assault near a service station on the M1 in Leicestershire. The incident occurred close to the Leicester Forest East southbound services, according to police.
Details of the incident
The suspect was taken into custody on suspicion of attempted rape at approximately 4:45pm on Tuesday. The alleged attack took place on Saturday between 6:20pm and 6:40pm, when the victim, a woman in her 20s, was walking along Baines Lane. This access road connects the service station with the A47 Hinckley Road.
Leicestershire Police reported that the woman was allegedly pulled to the ground and sexually assaulted during the incident.
Police appeal for information
Detective Inspector Jenny Tattersall, from Signal, the force's specialist team investigating rape and sexual assault, stated: "I'd like to thank everyone who has come forward with information and supported our enquiries to date. While we've made an arrest, our investigation is still very much continuing. I'd urge anyone who can help but has not yet spoken to police to come forward."
She added: "We know anyone using the services may have travelled from outside Leicestershire and I'm appealing for HGV drivers and other drivers who stopped there between 4pm and 7pm to get in touch."
A dedicated online portal has been established where individuals who can assist can upload dashcam footage or provide information directly to the investigation team.
This is a developing story. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
