Police Hunt Muscular Kidnapper Linked to Shocking Double Rape
Detectives have named 33-year-old Joseph McCann as the prime suspect in the terrifying abduction and rape of two women last week. Officers made a public appeal on Sunday, 28 April, and new information has zeroed in on McCann, who has ties to Watford, Aylesbury, and Ipswich.
Manhunt Underway for Tattooed Suspect
McCann is known to use aliases, most recently going by “Joel”. He’s described as muscular, 5ft 10ins tall, with blue eyes and either a bald head or shaved blond hair. He sports a light-coloured short beard and speaks with a slight Irish accent. A key identifying feature is a distinctive tattoo reading ‘bobbie’ on his stomach.
Detectives warn McCann may attempt to change his appearance to evade capture.
Timeline of Horror: Kidnappings, Hotel Drama & Desperate Escape
- First victim abducted in Chingford around 12:30am on 25 April.
- Second woman snatched from Edgware roughly 12 hours later at 12:15pm.
- Both victims were taken to a hotel in Watford, where McCann tried to book a room at 1pm but left when none was available.
- A struggle broke out at 2:30pm on Osborne Road, Watford, where the women bravely fought off McCann and escaped.
Police are hunting a silver or grey Ford S-Max people carrier with false registration plates linked to the attacks.
Warning: McCann Is Extremely Dangerous – Don’t Approach
“McCann is considered extremely dangerous and a risk to the public. Do not approach him,” said Detective Chief Inspector Katherine Goodwin from the Met’s Homicide and Major Crime Command.
“If you see him or have any information, call 999 immediately. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously.”
Both women, in their 20s, are receiving specialist support after the ordeal. The investigation is ongoing, led by the Met’s Homicide and Major Crime Command with Hertfordshire police assistance.
A 33-year-old man arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to rape has been released under investigation.
Seen McCann? Here’s How to Help
- Call the incident room: 020 8785 8244
- Emergency? Dial 999 quoting CAD 3041/25Apr
- Tweet @MetCC or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111
Police urge the public to stay alert and report anything suspicious. This dangerous fugitive must be caught before he strikes again.
