Three men, Vladas Rupeika, Nerijus Venckus, and Peter Hoppe, have been indicted following allegations that a teenage girl was drugged and sexually assaulted at a well-known park in London.
Authorities swiftly arrived at Fishponds Park in Surbiton, south-west London, soon before 7:15 AM on Thursday, in response to claims of a 17-year-old female having been raped.
According to the Metropolitan Police, three males have been charged with rape and appeared at Wimbledon Magistrates’ Court this morning.
Vladas Rupeika, 35, Nerijus Venckus, 36, and Peter Hoppe, 41, were present in court today.
Vladas Rupeika faces charges of rape, Nerijus Venckus is charged with rape and assault by penetration, and Peter Hoppe is charged with oral rape.
A fourth individual, apprehended on suspicion of providing a drug with the purpose to perpetrate a sexual offence, has been granted bail until additional investigations are conducted.
A Met Police spokesperson said today: “Three men have been charged following allegations of rape and sexual assault in Fishponds Park, Surbiton.
“Police were called at 7.13am on Thursday, August 21 after reports a 17-year-old girl had been raped and sexually assaulted at Fishponds Park, Surbiton.
“Vladas Rupeika, 35, of Epsom was charged with rape on Friday, August 22. He appeared at Wimbledon Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, August 23 and has been remanded into custody.
“Nerijus Venckus, 36, of Surbiton was charged with rape and assault by penetration on Friday, August 22. He appeared at Wimbledon Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, August 23 and has been remanded into custody.
“Peter Hoppe, 41, of Tolworth was charged with oral rape on Friday, August 22.
“He appeared at Croydon Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, August 23 and has been remanded into custody.
“A 24-year-old man was arrested for suspicion of sexual assault and administering a substance with intent to commit a sexual offence on Thursday, August 21.
“At this time he has been released under investigation pending further enquiries.”
Police said the victim and her family continue to be supported by specialist officers.
They added: “Local residents can expect to see an increase of patrols in the area.
“Anyone with any information is asked to contact 101 quoting CAD1207/21AUG.”
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