Detectives from the Sexual Crimes Squad have arrested and charged a man as part of an investigation into a historic rape.
Detectives travelled to Queensland as part of an ongoing investigation and arrested a 57-year-old man last Thursday (Oct. 17).
The man was extradited to Victoria on Saturday (Oct. 19) and subsequently charged.
Charges include:
– Abduction by force for the purpose of sexual penetration
– Aggravated Rape X 2
– Rape X 2
– Kidnapping
– False Imprisonment
He has been remanded to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on January 17.
Police will allege that on January 23, 1988, a 19-year-old woman was walking along Carlisle St, St Kilda, when she was grabbed by an unknown man.
The victim was then allegedly driven to Elwood beach where she was sexually assaulted.
The incident was reported to police at the time however an offender was not identified.
In May 2021 further information came to light and investigators reopened the investigation.
Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Brett Robinson said: “Today, after an agonising wait, we are happy to be able to inform our victim/survivor the news she has been waiting for.
“To be a 19-year-old woman, happily walking home after a fun night out, who suddenly had her world changed instantly in this way, is unimaginable.”
“Detectives did not give up on this investigation, in the hope we could bring justice for this horrific crime.”
“Shocking crimes like this, leave a permanent imprint on the victim/survivor and also the community, today we hope we have delivered some closure and relief,” Det. Acting Sgt Robinson said.