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 on 17 October.
The man was extradited to Victoria on 19 October 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 17 January 2025.
Police will allege that on 23 January 1988 a 19-year-old woman was walking along Carlisle Street, 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.
Quotes attributable to Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Brett Robinson:
"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."
