Detectives from Toowoomba Criminal Investigation Branch have charged 24-year-old Newtown man with further offences following his arrest over an alleged serious incident on March 3.
It will be alleged around 1:15am on February 25, the man approached a 23-year-old woman outside a venue in the Toowoomba CBD before she entered what she believed to be a rideshare vehicle.
The man drove her to a nearby address before the woman exited the vehicle and fled on foot.
It is further alleged a short time later, the man approached a 42-year-old woman on Ruthven Street and offered her a ride home.
While in the vehicle, the driver allegedly touched the woman inappropriately.
Both alleged incidents were reported to police on March 5 and the man was charged with two counts of sexual assault, and one count each of unlawful stalking and common assault.
The 24-year-old man was remanded in custody to appear in the Toowoomba Magistrates Court on April 23.
Detective Acting Inspector Paula Smithard said following a public appeal for information, additional alleged victims have come forward and provided information to investigators.
“These victims have shown immense bravery, to speak up and report to police, which ultimately allows us to track down offenders and prosecute them,” Detective Acting Inspector Smithard said.
“We encourage anyone with information to come forward and speak to our officers.”
If you’ve experienced sexual assault, it is not your fault and you are not alone. There are multiple ways to report what has happened to you depending on your situation.
If there’s an immediate danger, call Triple Zero (000). You can also report online via: https://forms.police.qld.gov.au/launch/SexualAssault, over the phone or face to face at a police station.
There are also Alternative Reporting Options available depending on your situation.
For confidential information, counselling and support, call the State-wide Sexual Assault Helpline on 1800 010 120 or 1800 RESPECT for 24-hour help.
