Adelaide man charged over historic sex offences in Perth
A 50-year-old Adelaide man has been charged over a sexual assault that occurred in Perth more than 20 years ago.
It is alleged the man physically restrained a woman, who was 35 at the time, when she went to a property in Gosnells in July 1994.
Police said he then took her to a nearby vacant property and repeatedly sexually assaulted her.
Materials from the case were re-examined using new forensic techniques as part of WA Police's Physical Materials Management Project, which was launched in September last year to review unsolved cases dating back to 1980.
The man was arrested at his Adelaide home yesterday and charged with deprivation of liberty, indecent assault and three counts of sexual penetration without consent.
Acting Commander Paul Coombes said police and the victim were eager to progress the case.
"We have a number of reviews ongoing and obviously the seriousness of this offence raised its priority," he said.
"Exhibits have been resubmitted for further testing, they were tested back then and because of the advances in technology we're able to increase our chances of identification."
He said the victim, who did not know her alleged attacker, had been informed of the arrest.
"The victim in this matter has been a fantastic witness, a very strong individual," Acting Commander Coombes said.
"She has been dealing with this issue for over 20 years so 'relief' is probably the best word I can use to describe her reaction.
"To have some form of closure is very satisfying both for her and all the investigators and support agencies in this matter."
The man was extradited to Perth and is due to appear in court tomorrow.
