Teenager charged over disturbing park assault
Hunter Valley detectives have arrested and charged a 13-year-old boy following what police describe as a random sexual assault on an elderly woman in a Maitland park. The shocking incident occurred on Monday evening in Brooklyn Park at Ashtonfield, sending shockwaves through the local community.
Details of the alleged attack
The assault took place around 7:20pm on Monday night when the victim, a woman in her 80s, was walking through the park. According to police reports, the woman was allegedly knocked to the ground and sexually assaulted by a male attacker. The assailant then fled the scene on a scooter shortly after the attack.
The elderly woman managed to return home following the traumatic incident, after which her family contacted authorities. Paramedics subsequently transported the victim to John Hunter Hospital for medical treatment and assessment.
Police investigation and arrest
In response to the serious nature of the attack, detectives from Port Stephens-Hunter and the State Crime Command's Sex Crimes Squad established Strike Force Bosgar to coordinate the investigation. Police issued a public appeal on Tuesday for dashcam footage or information from anyone who was in the park around the time of the assault.
The investigation led detectives to a home in East Maitland at approximately 7:40pm on Tuesday, where they arrested the 13-year-old boy. He was taken to Maitland police station for questioning before being formally charged.
The teenager faces three serious charges:
- Aggravated sexual assault - inflict actual bodily harm
- Sexually touching another person without consent
- Inciting another person to sexually touch without consent
Police refused bail for the young accused, who is scheduled to appear before a children's court in Sydney on Wednesday afternoon.
The case has raised serious concerns about random attacks in public spaces and the involvement of such young individuals in violent crimes. Local residents have expressed shock at the nature of the alleged offense and the age of the accused.
