A 34-year-old man from Caves Beach has been charged with multiple offences, including aggravated sexual assault, after allegedly breaking into an aged care facility and assaulting a woman in her 90s.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, November 15, at a nursing home in Bateau Bay. The victim, who sustained serious injuries, was promptly transported to the hospital for treatment.
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Police searched an address in The Entrance on Friday, November 17, where they discovered electronics, sim cards, and clothing believed to be linked to the crime.
The investigation led to the man’s arrest on Monday at his Caves Beach residence.
During the arrest, the man reportedly fled out the back door, jumped a fence, and injured his arm.
He was subsequently taken to the hospital for minor injuries before being brought to Belmont Police Station.
The charges against the man include breaking, aggravated sexual assault, and inflicting grievous bodily harm. He is expected to face Belmont Local Court today.
Sex Crimes Squad Commander Jayne Doherty said it was “horrendous” and “beyond belief” to attack a defenceless elderly person.
“We understand that the community will be in uproar over this type of offence,” Superintendent Doherty said.
“All we can assume is that it was an opportunistic incident,” she added.
The woman is recovering from severe wounds to her arms and is currently in the care of her family.
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