Big response to sketch of rapist
The release late yesterday of a computer sketch of a likeness of the man who attacked a woman in the Victory area of Nelson on New Year’s Day has generated a lot of feedback, which police are now working through, Detective Sergeant Ian Langridge of Nelson said today.
The hunt has been on since Tuesday for the man who savagely raped and beat the 62-year-old woman as she worked alone at the Victory Community Gardens.
The community has rallied to support the woman and to help the police.
The offender is described as about 170 centimetres (5ft 6in) tall, with a short ‘‘No 3’’ haircut, and is either Maori or Polynesian. He has distinctive tattoos, one of which fully covers his arm from shoulder to wrist. The other arm is tattooed from the shoulder to the elbow. The tattoos are described as ‘‘tribal’’ style.
Mr Langridge said the release of the image generated a lot of information via a police freephone.
‘‘While the information is not startling at this point, we’re managing it and working our way through it.’’
Mr Langridge said several people had already come forward with information, and it would all be investigated further. He also encouraged the offender to turn himself in and seek help.
Police are continuing to canvass the area, and are maintaining high-profile patrols in Victory and Nelson South. They set up a stand at the Nelson Market in Montgomery Square today, where people could offer information.
A freephone number has also been set up for people to call with information.
If you have any information, please call Nelson police on 546 3840, or the Operation Corinna freephone, 0508 267 4662 or 0508 CORINNA. Anonymous information can be given by calling Crimestoppers, 0800 555 111.