A man has been charged with two counts of rape following an early-morning incident in Blackpool that left two teenage girls reporting serious sexual assaults.
Arrest and charge
Police were called to an alleyway off Deansgate in Blackpool in the early hours of Saturday 26 July after reports that two girls, both in their late teens, had been raped. The report was logged at 2.36am.
Following an investigation by Lancashire Police, a 30-year-old man, identified as James Peters of no fixed address, was arrested on the evening of Tuesday 28 July. He was subsequently charged with two counts of rape after consultation with the Crown Prosecution Service.
Court appearance and custody
Peters has been remanded in custody and appeared at Lancaster Magistrates Court on Thursday 30 July.
| Key date | Event |
|---|---|
| 26 July | Incident reported to police at 2.36am — alleged rapes in alley off Deansgate |
| 28 July | 30-year-old man arrested |
| 30 July | Charged with two counts of rape; remanded and appeared at Lancaster Magistrates Court |
Community and safety
Incidents of this nature raise immediate concerns for the local community about safety, particularly late at night and in quieter streets. Residents and visitors are likely to seek reassurance on policing activity and any measures to improve safety around the Deansgate area and nearby parts of the town.
- Two victims: both described as in their late teens.
- Location: alleyway off Deansgate, Blackpool.
- Suspect: James Peters, 30, no fixed address; charged with two counts of rape.
Lancashire Police have launched the investigation and made the arrest that led to charges. Members of the public with information relevant to the case are asked to contact police — such appeals are standard in investigations of this type to help establish events and provide evidence for court proceedings.
Anyone affected by sexual violence should seek appropriate help and support. Local authorities and policing partners offer specialist services for victims; those seeking assistance can contact Lancashire Police for guidance on immediate safety and signposting to support organisations.
The case will proceed through the criminal courts, where further hearings will determine how the matter is handled beyond the initial magistrates’ appearance.
This office will continue to follow developments and will report on any further court dates and police updates as they are confirmed.
