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Blenheim Police go door to door in search of intruder

Tuesday 15 November 2011, 1:07PM

By New Zealand Police

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BLENHEIM

Police in Blenheim are stepping up their search for the man believed to have sexually assaulted a woman in her home in Eltham Rd early on Sunday morning.

A large team of police will be out canvassing the neighbourhood in the vicinity of Eltham Rd this afternoon and evening to try and gather more information about the offender's movements. Residents in the area are advised that police will be visiting every household to speak to all people about the case.

Detective Sergeant Dave Woodley said police were interested in any sightings of a bearded man, possibly Pacific Islander, in the area between 4am and 6am on Sunday.

"We also want to know about anyone who may have just shaved off a beard. We believe the offender may also have scratch marks on the left side of his face."

Detective Sergeant Woodley said police would also be asking residents about any theft of women's underwear after underpants that did not belong to the victim were found at her address after the attack.

Police will also have a caravan set up in the neighbourhood and the public are welcome to come and speak with staff if they have any information.

"We look forward to the support and cooperation of the community in solving this crime.

We're timing the neighbourhood canvas to coincide with people coming home from work for the day," Detective Sergeant Woodley said.

"I really encourage anyone who has seen or heard anything unusual in this part of town to come forward quickly. We need to put all of the pieces of the puzzle together an every snippet of information is vital at this stage."

The man police are looking for is described as about 5ft 8in tall (1.76m), of solid to fat build, with frizzy hair.

Anyone with information can contact Blenheim Police, Ph 03 578 5279.
To give information anonymously call Crimestoppers Ph 0800 555 111.