Police hunt rapist who dragged 90-year-old off street in Rochdale

The investigators reassured the victim, who was visibly traumatised, that the suspect will be brought to justice.

13:36 26 June 2014

A 90-year-old woman was dragged off street in Rochdale and was raped as she walked to her local butchers on Spotland Road on Tuesday morning.

 

According to reports, a man covered her mouth from the behind and dragged her backwards before she lost consciousness. When she woke up, she realised she had been attacked and raped. She then went to the butchers where staff helped her call the police. 

 

Superintendent Alistair Mallen was visibly disgusted as he warned the suspect. Looking straight to the camera, he said:  "What I'd say to that individual - and if he's watching me now - get yourself to a police station and explain your actions.

 

"If you don't, I'll tell you now, we will be knocking at your door in the next 24 hours.

 

He said earlier: "I am sure the entire community will share our revulsion at this.

 

"The victim has been through an horrific ordeal and we are all hoping she can make a full recovery.

 

"She is now being supported by experienced officers and we are doing everything possible to reassure her that we will catch the man responsible.

 

"This kind of attack is thankfully so rare that it will naturally cause a huge amount of concern in the community.

 

"I now want people, including the criminal fraternity, to imagine if that had been your mum or grandma. I want to harness these feelings and use them to help the police do their job - catch this man and put him before the courts.

 

"It may not have struck you as significant at the time, but please, if you saw anything or anyone that you think could be relevant then please call the police."