MAN APPEARS IN COURT CHARGED WITH RAPING TEENAGE GIRL IN TUNBRIDGE WELLS
A suspect charged with a rape in the centre of Tunbridge Wells has been remanded in custody by magistrates.It is reported that during the evening of Saturday (October 18), a teenage girl was sexually assaulted by an unknown man on Tunbridge Wells Common.
The incident happened close to Mount Ephraim and the junction for Molyneux Park Road.
Rocco Minafra, 46, of Judd Road, Tonbridge, was arrested on Monday (October 20).
He was subsequently charged with rape and three counts related to sexual assault.
He was also charged with making threats to kill.
The suspect appeared before Folkestone Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (October 23) and was remanded in custody.
His next hearing will be at Maidstone Crown Court on November 23.
Detectives are continuing to appeal for information which may assist the investigation.
A Kent Police spokesperson said: "They are particularly keen to speak to the occupants of a vehicle, believed to be a white car, who are reported to have shouted in the direction of the victim and the suspect, who was walking with a bike.
This was between 8pm and 9pm." Anyone with information should call Kent Police on 01622 604100, quoting the reference 46/180747/25.
They can also contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111 or by using the online form.