Detectives from Sexual Crimes Squad are determined to provide closure for a woman sexually assaulted in Fitzroy almost 40 years ago.
On 25 September, 1982 – that year’s AFL grand final day – the then 19-year-old Carlton woman went to an unknown apartment in a high-rise building in Fitzroy with an acquaintance named Chris, believed to be a friend of the victim’s neighbour.
The victim told police that Chris had said he knew somewhere they could go to watch the footy.
Upon entering the apartment, Chris disappeared, and the victim recalls being left alone in the living area with four older males.
The woman remembers these males as speaking in a foreign language.
One of the males attempted to sexually assault her and when she protested, two of the men carried her to an open lounge room window and dangled her out, threatening to drop her if she didn’t stop resisting.
She was brought back into the living room and then sexually assaulted by each of the men.
The victim told police she attempted to maintain eye contact with each of the offenders for as long as possible, and subsequently was able to obtain a prolonged look at each of their faces.
When she was left alone, she ran through the front door and down the stairs.
Police have released digital composite images of two of the men they wish to identify and speak to in relation to the sexual assault.
The woman has been able to provide a detailed description of two of the four offenders.
The first male is described as being southern European in appearance with a stocky build. He was wearing jeans and a green Exacto brand t-shirt at the time.
The second male is as of Caucasian appearance with a thin build and green eyes. He was wearing striped pyjama shorts at the time.
The offenders were believed to have been aged approximately in their 20s at the time and would now likely be aged in their 60s.
Detectives are keen to speak to anyone who recognises either of the men.
They are also appealing for the man known as Chris to come forward.
Detectives have also released a digital composite image of what the victim looked like at the time.
Finally, police are appealing for the victim’s female neighbour, who lived at the now defunct address of 216 Rathdowne Street in Carlton, to come forward in the hope she may be able to provide any further information including the identity of Chris.
That house at that address has since been demolished and replaced by a commercial building.
Victoria Police is committed to investigating matters of sexual assault and bringing those responsible to justice, no matter how much time has passed.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report at www.crimestoppers.com.au
Quotes attributable to Detective Acting Inspector Tracy Johnston, Sexual Crimes Squad:
“The victim has lived with the physical and emotional impacts of this assault for almost 40 years. We are determined to pursue every avenue of inquiry so we can provide her with the closure she deserves.
“Historical sexual offending matters are incredibly complex, but we know someone in the community could still hold the information that might just provide police the key to delivering justice.
“We know people’s circumstances can change over time, and this appeal might be the prompt needed to help close a terrible chapter in someone’s life.
“If you recognise either of the two men in these images, please contact Crime Stoppers.
“We are also particularly keen to speak to Chris, or the young woman who lived at 216 Rathdowne Street.
“We’re keen to speak with anyone, including members of the community, who might have information about this incident. No piece of information is too small.”
