(Image: POLICE)
A 45-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of rape after police launched an appeal to trace him.
Officers had released an image of the man earlier this week as they sought to speak to him in connection with the reported rape of a woman.
The incident was reported to have taken place on Thursday, July 30, 2026.
He was located and arrested this morning (August 25) and is in police custody.
A Cleveland Police spokesperson said: "A 45-year-old man, who was circulated earlier this week as wanted, has now been located and arrested on suspicion of rape.
"He was arrested this morning, Tuesday 25 August, and taken to police custody for questioning.
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"Thank you to everyone who shared our appeal to locate him."
The force had previously asked anyone who had seen the man or knew of his whereabouts to contact Cleveland Police on 101, quoting reference number 152369.
Information could also be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.