Woman sexually assaulted in lay-by by man who ‘posed as police officer’ in Rugby

Police in Rugby are appealing for witnesses after the woman reported the incident on a road near to Rugby at around 11.30pm on Friday June 26.

The woman driver had travelled on the B4453 in the direction of Rugby, when a black Audi A4 with a ‘59’ registration plate, with what appeared to be a blue flashing light indicated that she should pull over on to a lay-by on the A4071, close to Blooms Rugby Garden Centre.

A man got out of the Audi A4, showed the victim what appeared to be an identity card and ordered her to get out of her vehicle. The woman, in her 30s, was then sexually assaulted by touching.

A full investigation has begun and initial lines of inquiry suggest that this man was not a police officer.

Detective Inspector Neil Candelent said: “We appreciate the alarm that this may cause to both drivers and people living in the Warwickshire area, however our initial lines of inquiry suggest that this man is not a police officer.

“We urge that anyone concerned about the validity of a police officer should ask to see their warrant card and contact the police contact centre on telephone 101 to confirm their identity. A genuine police officer will always be happy for their identity to be verified.”

The man has been described as black, over 6ft tall and in his 40s, with a large, stocky build and a shaved head. He was wearing a white shirt with black epaulettes, black tie and black trousers.

Another man, described as white, remained in the Audi while the assault took place.

Anyone who was in the area at this time or who may have seen a vehicle being stopped by a black Audi, should contact police immediately on 101 quoting reference 508 of 26 June.

You can also give information anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.