A woman was raped in Northallerton in the early hours of yesterday morning (Thursday).
Police were called at 1.17am to reports that a woman had been sexually assaulted at a house in the town.
An investigation was launched and a “significant number of officers” searched the area.
As a result, a 26-year-old man from the County Durham area was arrested last night. He remains in custody.
A man in his 40s and a man in his 20s were also arrested in connection with the investigation yesterday morning.
They have now been released with no further action and eliminated from the investigation.
The victim is being offered specialist support following the incident.
Inspector Rory Sadler, of Hambleton Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “This has been a hugely distressing incident for the victim and has caused alarm in the wider community.
“It’s been a fast-moving investigation and there will continue to be a visible police presence in the area to reassure concerned residents.
“I’d also like to provide some clarity about rumours circulating in the community.
“A white British man from the Durham area has been arrested in connection with this incident.
“I’m aware there is some speculation about links to a separate burglary in the Hambleton area. However, I can confirm police are treating these incidents as unrelated.
“I’d stress that the incident in Northallerton is isolated and we are not looking for anyone else as part of our investigation.”
