A 20-year-old man has been arrested and charged following an alleged sexual assault of an 80-year-old woman in the Palmerston suburb of Woodroffe.
Incident Details
The alleged incident occurred at approximately 8:50 PM on Wednesday evening. A man is reported to have entered a home in Woodroffe, near Darwin, through the front door. He then allegedly sexually assaulted the 80-year-old woman who was inside the residence.
Arrest and Charges
The suspect was arrested two days after the incident. He has been charged with the following offences:
- Sexual intercourse without consent
- Aggravated burglary
- Aggravated assault
- Depriving a person of personal liberty
Detective Senior Sergeant Toby Wilson attributed the arrest to a coordinated effort involving multiple police units, including the Sex Crimes Unit, Forensics Unit, Fugitive Task Force, Domestic Violence Investigation Unit, General Duties, Serious Crime, Territory Intel, CCTV operators, and Dog Operations Unit.
Suspect Description
Initial police appeals described the suspect as being of Aboriginal appearance, with a tall, slim build and wavy hair. He was reported to be wearing a light top, dark shorts, and thongs at the time of the alleged incident.
Legal Proceedings
The man is in custody and is expected to appear in Darwin Local Court on Monday.
Official Response
Attorney-General Marie-Clare Boothby stated that the government expects the suspect to be apprehended and dealt with. Detectives from the Sex Crimes Unit have canvassed the area for CCTV footage as part of their investigation.
Context
The Northern Territory Police Force launched Operation Ventura on the Monday prior to the incident, aimed at addressing rising crime and anti-social activity in Palmerston. Recent crime statistics indicate an increase in assaults and property offences in the area.
How to Help
Anyone with information is requested to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000.