Man charged with raping 14-year-old boy in public toilet appears in court
A man has appeared in court, charged with raping a teenage boy in public toilets on Bournemouth seafront.
The 14-year-old was assaulted by a man sometime between 8.30am and 8.45am on Saturday, May 7.
A 51-year-old man from the town has been charged with rape and is due before Poole Magistrates' Court on Wednesday 11 May.
Police are continuing to appeal for any witnesses to come forward.
Detective Chief Inspector Ross Graham, of Bournemouth CID, said: “Specially trained officers are continuing to provide support to the boy and his family, and they have been updated with this latest development.
“Our investigation into this reported offence remains ongoing and I would urge any witnesses or anyone with information to please contact Dorset Police.
“This matter is now subject to a court process, and it would therefore be entirely inappropriate for Dorset Police to comment further at this time. It is important that the justice system is allowed to follow its course.
“I would like to remind the public that this matter is now the subject of active court proceedings, and it is important to stress that there should be no commentary or sharing of information online or on social media that could potentially prejudice these proceedings.”
Neighbourhood Chief Inspector Darren Harris, of the BCP Local Policing Area, said: “We understand this reported offence will cause great concern to members of the public.
"Officers from the local neighbourhood policing team will be carrying out enhanced patrols over the coming week and can be approached with any concerns.
“We are continuing to work collaboratively with BCP Council and other partner agencies to ensure we have an increased visible presence along the seafront and these efforts will continue throughout the rest of the spring and summer.
“Police officers, police community support officers, Community Safety Accreditation Scheme (CSAS) officers and council staff can be approached by members of the public with any concerns. RNLI lifeguards and staff can also be approached, with their beach towers serving as a safe place to address concerns or seek further help.”