Serial Rapist Joseph McCann Nabbed in Cheshire
Joseph McCann, suspected serial rapist, was arrested in Cheshire overnight. Police say he’s now linked to a string of horrific attacks across Manchester, Lancashire, and Cheshire. The vile assaults include the rape of pensioners, children, and teenagers.
Nine More Attacks Under Investigation
- Watford, 21 April: Early morning abduction and rape of a woman in her twenties in a car.
- Chingford, London, 25 April: Woman in her twenties abducted and raped in a car at around 00:30hrs.
- Edgware, London, 25 April: Another woman in her twenties abducted and raped in a vehicle.
- Haslingden, Lancashire, 5 May: Woman in her thirties falsely imprisoned; an 11-year-old girl and boy raped.
- Bury, Manchester, 5 May: 71-year-old woman abducted and raped early afternoon.
- Heywood, Manchester, 5 May: Two 13-year-olds and a 13-year-old girl abducted; girl sexually assaulted.
- Congleton, Cheshire, 5 May: Four teenage girls forced into cars but not sexually assaulted.
Man Arrested After Police Hunt
Police arrested a 34-year-old man in Congleton in connection with the abduction of two teenage girls. Officers confirmed the teenagers were found safe but traumatised.
“The two girls abducted were both located safe and well. However, they are extremely distressed as a result of their ordeal and are currently being supported by specially trained officers,” said Chief Inspector Gareth Wrigley. “We understand this has been a concerning time for local residents and will maintain a strong police presence in Congleton.”
Met Police Confirm McCann’s Link to Multiple Offences
The Metropolitan Police launched an urgent nationwide hunt for McCann after two brutal abductions in London. He was caught early Monday, 6 May, and is now being probed for multiple offences spanning London, Hertfordshire, Cheshire, Manchester, and Lancashire.
“Between 21 April and 5 May, McCann is suspected of committing numerous horrific attacks. We are investigating nine additional victims beyond those in Hertfordshire and London,” confirmed DCI Katherine Goodwin. “Victims are being supported by specialist officers. We urge any other victims or witnesses to come forward immediately.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact the incident room on 020 8785 8244 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Police Action and Public Appeal
Following the investigation launch, McCann’s details and photo were circulated nationwide. A £20,000 reward was offered for information leading to his arrest. Police used ANPR technology to track his vehicle and coordinated across forces to nail him.
Timeline of Attacks
- 21 April, Watford: Woman in her twenties abducted and raped in a car at 03:30.
- 25 April, Chingford, London: Woman in her twenties abducted and raped in a car around 00:30.
- 25 April, Edgware, London: Woman in her twenties abducted and raped at 12:15.
- 5 May, Haslingden, Lancashire: Woman falsely imprisoned; an 11-year-old girl and boy raped around 08:00.
- 5 May, Bury, Manchester: 71-year-old woman abducted and raped around 13:30.
- 5 May, Heywood, Manchester: Two 13-year-old boys and a 13-year-old girl abducted; girl sexually assaulted around 15:30.
- 5 May, Congleton, Cheshire: Two 14-year-old girls forced into a car at 18:30 but not assaulted.
