Appeal launched over historic Northampton sex abuse centred around 'statue at top of Abington Street'

An appeal has been launched over the alleged sexual abuse of young people in Northampton that "originated" near the statue at the top of Abington Street.

Northamptonshire Police has launched an appeal for information today (June 29) following a recent Facebook post that has reportedly seen dozens of Northampton woman sharing allegations of abuse by older men when they were teenagers.

The police appeal today has claimed the incidents "originated near the statue at the top of Abington Street", and is asking for anyone with information to come forward.

In the appeal today, Detective Inspector Liz Basham, said: “We have been made aware of a Facebook post where lots of people are telling their stories regarding their experiences with older men next to the statue in Abington Street.

“We have set up a dedicated incident number for this case and would like as many people as possible to contact us to tell us their stories.

“Let me be clear that I do not underestimate in the slightest the courage it takes to come forward and tell police officers about sexual abuse and I want to reassure people that we will treat your reports with the confidence and sensitivity they deserve.

“We have already seen a lot of people bravely telling their stories on the Facebook thread itself so please do take the next step and report it to us so we can start an investigation – regardless of the time that may have passed, we still want to hear from you.”

Anyone who has been a victim of sexual abuse is encouraged to contact police on 101. If you’re not comfortable speaking to someone initially, you can report online at www.northants.police.uk/ro.

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