Cops release CCTV of man after schoolgirl 16, raped in busy city centre gardens amid urgent hunt for attacker
POLICE have released CCTV images of a man they want to speak to after a schoolgirl was allegedly raped in Liverpool.
She was attacked in St John’s Gardens at around 1:50am on Friday, Merseyside Police said.
When officers arrived at the city centre park they found a “very distressed” 16-year-old.
Police still haven’t hunted down the suspect but believe the man in the CCTV could help them with their investigation.
Det Insp Carla Cross encouraged the man in the images or anyone who recognises him to get in touch.
She added: “It is important that people who live, work and socialise in Liverpool city centre feel safe and we will hope that our high visibility patrols will assist with that.”
DCI Paul Parry previously said a “number of people” were St John’s Gardens at the time of the attack but left the area without speaking to cops.
He added: “This is clearly a very shocking incident which has left a young girl very distressed.
“I want the public to be reassured that we will do everything in our powers to find the person responsible and bring them to justice.”
The force are still appealing for witnesses to come forward.
Delivery and taxi drivers are also asked to check for dashcam footage.
The girl was being supported by specially trained officers.