A man from Hereford has been charged with rape after an incident in the grounds of Hereford Cathedral. Christopher Filbrandt, 31, of Eign Mill Road, was arrested following reports of the crime, which occurred on July 12, 2024.
Filbrandt has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear at Kidderminster Magistrates’ Court on July 15.
West Mercia Police received the report early Friday morning, indicating that a woman had been assaulted around 3 AM. In response, police cordoned off the Cathedral Close at all entrances, maintaining a visible presence throughout the area.
Detective Inspector Ben Pearson acknowledged that the incident would raise significant concern within the community but assured that a thorough investigation was underway. He also noted that the victim is receiving support from specially trained officers.
As part of their inquiries, police released a CCTV image of a man from a local nightspot who they wanted to identify in connection with the case. The man was quickly recognized, leading to Filbrandt’s arrest.
A police spokesperson confirmed that the investigation is ongoing as they continue to gather evidence.