Man arrested following rape of teenage boy in St Leonards
Investigations are ongoing.
Police investigating the rape of a 17-year-old boy in St Leonards have arrested a 38-year-old man.
The incident is reported to have occurred at an address in the area around midnight on Friday, 30th January 2026. The suspect was arrested on 2nd February on suspicion of rape and remains in custody while enquiries continue.
Detective Inspector Carol Shoesmith explained that police are working closely with the victim, ensuring he has access to specialist support.
“This is an evolving investigation, and we have specialist officers in contact with the victim to ensure he is fully supported throughout," Shoesmith said.
From the time the case was reported to police on the morning of 31st January, multiple enquiries were conducted in the St Leonards area to identify and arrest the suspect.
Detective Inspector Shoesmith confirmed that officers are not seeking anyone else in connection to the incident but encouraged people to share any relevant information.
“We would like to thank those who shared our appeals and provided any information which led to this arrest, and we urge those with information to continue reporting, which could be crucial to the investigation,” Shoesmith said.