Joseph Healey, 43, faces court after 19-year-old woman raped in Nottingham alley near Canal Street

A man has been charged with rape following a serious sexual assault in Nottingham city centre that left a 19-year-old woman traumatised and triggered a swift police response.

The attack took place in an alleyway off Canal Street at around 8pm on Friday, 20 June. The woman was reportedly targeted while walking alone, prompting immediate action from police units in the area.

Officers arrested a suspect near the scene shortly after the incident. Joseph Healey, 43, of no fixed address, has since been charged with four offences: rape, sexual assault, administering a substance with intent to overpower, and assaulting an emergency worker.

He is due to appear before Nottingham Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 23 June.

Detective Sergeant Helen Sanders of Nottinghamshire Police confirmed that specially trained officers had been assigned to support the victim. “Specialist police staff continue to support the victim and she has been kept fully up to date on the course of our investigation,” she said.

“This has been a fast-moving case. A team of officers worked quickly and efficiently over the weekend to understand exactly what happened, and this suspect will now face magistrates at the earliest opportunity.”

Despite the arrest and charges, police are continuing their appeal for witnesses. DS Sanders stressed that investigators are keen to speak to anyone who may have been walking along the canal at the time of the assault.

“We are aware there were a number of people walking along the canal between the Trent Street Bridge, Loverose Bridge and the A60 London Road Bridge around this time,” she added. “I’d urge them to get in touch without delay as they may be able to help our inquiries.”

The area near Canal Street is a popular pedestrian route linking central Nottingham with the riverfront. On Friday evening, the location would have been busy with locals and commuters. Officers believe witnesses may have seen something significant without realising its importance.

The assault has prompted fresh concern about public safety and the ongoing efforts to tackle violence against women and girls. Nottinghamshire Police said the force, along with partner agencies, remains fully committed to addressing gender-based violence and ensuring justice for victims.

Joseph Healey remains in custody and will be presented before magistrates in Nottingham on Monday. The outcome of the hearing is expected to determine whether the case proceeds to Crown Court.

The assault has shocked the local community, and authorities have urged anyone with information or footage—whether from mobile phones or dashcams—to come forward as soon as possible.

Those with information should contact Nottinghamshire Police on 101, quoting incident number 807 of 20 June 2025. Alternatively, information can be shared anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

As the legal process moves forward, support for the victim continues. Police say her wellbeing is the priority, and she remains under the care of trained specialists.

The case has once again highlighted the dangers faced by women in public spaces and reinforced calls for vigilance, witness cooperation, and a justice system that responds rapidly and decisively.