Boy, 12, charged with attempted rape

A 12-year-old boy has been charged with the attempted rape of an 11-year-old girl behind a shopping complex, police said today.

Detectives said the victim was allegedly attacked at the rear of a video store, in the Kenton area of Newcastle, and it is understood the alleged attack was witnessed by a nine-year-old girl.

The incident happened on Wednesday night and following police inquiries the 12-year-old was arrested the following morning and yesterday charged with attempted rape.

A Northumbria Police spokesman said today: ‘‘We can confirm that a 12-year-old boy has been charged with the attempted rape of an 11-year-old girl and will be appearing before magistrates next week.’’

The boy is due to appear at Newcastle Youth Court, in Gosforth, on Wednesday.