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DNA link between North Adelaide attacks

DNA link between North Adelaide attacks

Police have warned women to be vigilant around North Adelaide at night after two attacks were linked by DNA.

They fear the attacker could strike again and have renewed their pleas for information.

The DNA match has been found between a sexual assault on September 6 and an assault on November 23.

On September 6, a 23-year-old woman was sexually assaulted by a man after she was attacked while walking along Gover St at about 12.10am.

Appealing for information the day after the attack, police described the attack on the woman as 'horrendous'.

In the most recent incident, on November 23, a 21-year-old woman walking along Pennington Tce past St Peter’s Cathedral was grabbed from behind at about 2am.

She was dragged into the grounds of the church.

“The woman screamed, struggled with the man, and managed to break free before fleeing to safety,” said Detective Superintendent Damian Powell from the Sexual Crime Investigation Branch.

He said the DNA analysis confirms the same man was involved in both attacks, but that profile does not match any on the state or national databases.

“Our concern is that this person is unknown, at large in the community, and there is a real possibility that further assaults may occur,” Det Supt Powell said.

“What is of concern to police is that despite the high public awareness of the first sexual assault, the high visibility of police, and the intense police investigation, it doesn’t seem to have deterred this man’s behavior.

“It is of concern that if he is not located, that there is a real potential for further assaults to occur.”

Police are asking women to take care if they are out at night in the North Adelaide area.

“We want to take this opportunity to ask the community to be extra vigilant, particularly women, who may be walking out early in the night or late at night,” Det Supt Powell said.

“Keep to well lit areas, walk with friends if you can, and if you can organize a lift home, that would be best.”

Anyone with information about this attacker is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online at www.sa.crimestoppers.com.au.