Alleged rapist in Darlington's Stanhope Park appears in court

Luke Boyce, 21, of Emmanuel Close, Darlington, has been charged with two counts of rape and one of assault by penetration.

A teenager reported that she had been raped by a man in Stanhope Park at around 11.30pm on Friday (April 8).

Minutes after the initial call was received, police arrested a man nearby in connection with the incident. A large section of Stanhope Park was cordoned off over the weekend as crime scene officers combed the area for evidence.

Boyce appeared at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court on Monday (April 11) morning. Dressed in a grey tracksuit, he spoke only to confirm his name and address.

He was remanded in custody and will appear at Teesside Crown Court on May 9.

Read more: Police cordon in place at Stanhope Park in Darlington

Officers at he scene of the incident in Stanhope Park

Police are appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident, or who has information, to come forward.

A spokesman for Durham Police said: "A team of detectives have been working tirelessly on the investigation throughout the weekend, and their enquiries remain ongoing.

"They are keen to speak to anyone who witnessed the incident, or anyone who may have any information that could assist their investigation.

"Please call Durham Constabulary on 101, quoting incident number 545 of April 8 with any information."

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