Three teenage boys aged 13, 14 and 15 have been charged with rape after a young girl was attacked in a Morrisons car park.
The boys were charged with one count of rape of a female under the age of 16 following the attack in Newbold, Rochdale.
They have also been jointly charged with two further counts of rape of a female under 16.
Four boys were initially arrested and held in custody on February 10, 2024 – the fourth boy, was released without charge.
Detective Superintendent Phil Key said: ‘This investigation has seen extensive and thorough work reviewing all available evidence in this case.
‘We are now in a position to charge three boys following the incident last year.
‘We continue to provide support to the victim and her wellbeing has been a priority for us over the last 12 months.
‘I would remind the public not to speculate on names of those they believe to be involved, as those under 18 have a legal right to anonymity and in speculating over names, this poses a risk to justice, and criminal proceedings can and may be brought against those naming.’
The victim will continue to be supported by specially trained officers.
The boys will appear at Manchester Youth Court on March 24, 2025.
At the time of the attack, the car park was taped off by police.
Morrisons declined to comment.
