An alleged home invasion and attempted rape of a Kawerau teenager last month never happened, police say.
A major investigation was launched after police were told a 16-year-old girl had been awoken by an intruder in her bedroom soon after midday on August 1.
The girl alleged the man grabbed
her, pinned her to her bed and attempted to rape her before she fought back, kicking him and forcing him to flee the house.
Police confirmed to the Whakatane Beacon they would no longer be investigating the alleged incident and the matter had been referred to the youth aid section for a recommendation regarding the complainant.
Acting Eastern Bay area commander Inspector Anna Jackson said information came to light several days into the inquiry which indicated that the incident had not occurred.
Ms Jackson said this was then confirmed by the girl.
"Whenever an allegation of this nature is made, police will always take it seriously, as we did in this case.
"An alleged incident of this kind is distressing for everyone involved - including the wider community.
As a result, we had an extensive team working on the inquiry, with up to 15 investigators, as well as members of Kawerau police actively involved.
"While we are pleased that the case is resolved and the community can feel reassured, at the same time this was clearly a cry for help of a different kind from a young person.
"Part of our focus through the youth aid section will be to ensure that she has the help she needs."
- NZPA
