Woman raped after knife threat in Brighton city centre
- Published
Queen's Road, near the junction with Gloucester Road
A woman was raped near a busy city centre street by a man who threatened her, telling her he had a knife.
Police are appealing for witnesses after the attack in Brighton city centre between 12:15 and 01:00 GMT.
As the victim, in her 40s, walked towards the sea along Queen's Road, a man she did not know told her he had a knife and forced her down steps.
He is described as white, clean shaven but of a scruffy appearance, and with a scar on the left side of his face.
The attack happened near the junction with Gloucester Road and the suspect, wearing a red T-shirt and blue trousers, made off along Queen's Road afterwards.
No knife was actually seen by the victim.
Det Insp Ian Still said: "This was an isolated incident, carried out close to the main thoroughfare leading to Brighton railway station.
"Our enquiries are still at an early stage and we are seeking to clarify the exact circumstances."