POLICE: HELP FIND THIS MAN AFTER ABDUCTION AND RAPE OF 14-YEAR-OLD GIRL IN BISHOP'S STORTFORD

In March 2014, Hertfordshire Police launched an investigation into the alleged sexual assault of a 14-year-old girl who was kidnapped and held overnight in an unknown location.

The victim was in the Haymead’s Lane area of Bishop’s Stortford around 8:30 pm on February 16 when she encountered a dark-colored vehicle, possibly a Land Rover or similar SUV.

The suspect, described as a tanned, muscular white man with glasses, 'saggy' skin, and a prominent nose, was driving a vehicle that had a tinted rear windscreen and back passenger windows. Police stated that the girl was forcibly taken into the car by the man and transported to an undisclosed location outside of Hertfordshire, where she was sexually assaulted.

She was then driven back to Bishop’s Stortford and left near the train station around 7:45 am the following day.

An E-fit image of the suspect has been released as part of ongoing investigations.

Chief Inspector Gerry McDonald commented: "We have worked closely with the victim to generate this E-fit, which is a very good likeness to the offender. If you believe you can identify the man, please contact police or Crimestoppers with information."

Regarding the delay in releasing information, Chief Inspector McDonald explained: "This is a very, very serious allegation. I have had to employ a number of investigative tactics, overt and covert, and needed this time to collate evidence and ensure we were on the path to arresting suspects."

The victim is described as being 5 foot 5 inches tall (1.65 meters), slim, and was wearing a black hooded jacket, blue jeans, trainers, and carrying a shoulder bag during the incident.

The suspect is described as a white male in his 30s, approximately 5 foot 7 inches tall (1.70 meters), muscular with a tan complexion and a large nose. He had what the girl described as "droopy or saggy" skin, short brown or blond hair swept over the top with shorter sides and back, and wore black or blue-framed glasses. His clothing included grey, ripped jeans, a white T-shirt, a black hoodie with white writing, and Dr. Martens shoes.

Police urged the public to come forward if they have any relevant information: "We have conducted a number of inquiries in the local area but would ask anyone who was around during the times mentioned and who has not yet spoken to police to contact us if they have information that may assist our investigation."

Chief Inspector McDonald added: "I believe local people hold the key to our investigation, so please don’t be afraid to call if you think you have even a small piece of information — it could prove vital."

He reassured the community by stating: "This is an extremely serious matter and one which, understandably, has caused concern within the community. I would like to reiterate that this is an unusual incident, and investigations are a priority as we explore every possible line of inquiry."

Anyone with information is urged to contact Hertfordshire Police non-emergency number 101, quoting crime reference A2/14/240. Alternatively, members of the public can call Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111.