Man charged with rape of girl, 13, in Southampton

A man has been charged with the rape of a 13-year-old girl in Southampton.

The victim was attacked overnight between Boxing Day and Friday 27th December at an address in the St Mary's area.

Damian Andre Martin, of Millbrook Road West, has been charged with rape, sexual assault, two counts of assault by penetration, assault by beating and taking a child so as to keep him/her from a person having lawful control.

The 48-year-old appeared at Southampton Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday 31st December.

He has been remanded in custody and is next due to appear at Southampton Crown Court on 30th January.

A second man, a 50-year-old from Southampton, has been arrested on suspicion of rape and released on conditional police bail.

The girl is currently being supported by specialist officers.

A spokesperson for Hampshire Police said: "We want to remind you of the support available to children who have experienced, or are experiencing, sexual abuse of any form.

"We recognise that not everyone has the confidence to speak to police straight away, but there are other support services available that you can access.

"Children can contact Childline on 0800 1111. If you are concerned about a child then you can contact the NSPCC helpline, confidentially, on 0808 800 5000. Alternatively, you can email help@nspcc.org.uk

"For those in Southampton, Yellow Door, a local charity, can also offer you a range of help and support. You can visit their website at yellowdoor.org.uk or contact them on 023 8063 6312."

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