Investigation continues in beach rape case

Investigation continues in beach rape case

UPDATED JUNE 10 - Neptune Beach police are finally beginning to get some cooperation in the sexual assault case tied to a possible underage drinking party at a nearby rental home. On Tuesday, police announced potential witnesses have begun coming forward for interviews.

The investigation into charges that a 15-year-old girl had been sexually assaulted by several boys had been hampered by parents of the teenage partygoers who had refused to allow their kids to be interviewed.

The owner of the home at 102 Magnolia St. confirmed he had rented it out last week to a local family. The home is just a short distance from the Seagate Avenue ramp where the victim was found intoxicated and unconscious. She was a houseguest of the family who rented the home where the party took place.

The victim who was clothed and appeared intoxicated told police she been sexually assaulted by several people attending a nearby party. Police have evidence that indicates she was attacked on the beach after leaving the party.

At least 18 students, all teenagers and mostly students from The Bolles School, attended the party held at an oceanfront home rented by the parents of one partygoer. Police say that there is evidence of underage drinking at the home.

The two parents told police they were upstairs and knew nothing about the drinking downstairs or the attack. They remain under investigation and have retained an attorney.