Victim of Reservoir Sexual Assault Joins Police Plea for Perpetrator
A 30-year-old woman, who was sexually assaulted in Reservoir, north Melbourne, has publicly joined a police plea for assistance in locating the perpetrator. The victim, who wishes to remain anonymous, described the traumatic incident that occurred after she left a work Christmas party in an Uber.
Details of the Assault Incident
The woman was dropped off near her home in Reservoir around 2am on Thursday, December 4. She reported that her memory becomes unclear at this point, and she later regained consciousness with a man on top of her in an unknown apartment unit on Strathmerton Street.
It remains unknown how she was moved from the nature strip into the unit, which is believed to be frequented by squatters. The charity worker managed to push the man off and escape the unit, running to her home where a housemate helped her report the incident to Victoria Police.
Impact on the Victim's Life
The assault has profoundly affected the victim, causing her to alter her daily routines out of fear. She expressed that the uncertainty is terrifying, stating it took her a while to return to a normal routine.
She used to ride her bike, catch the train, and socialize with friends, but has since become a homebody, avoiding these activities and drinking. Her statement highlights the ongoing trauma, as she desires to walk around her neighbourhood and ride her bike again without fear.
Police Investigation and Public Appeal
More than three months after the attack, police have released a computer-generated image of a man they believe could aid the investigation. The suspect is described as being of Middle Eastern appearance, aged between 50 and 60, with dark hair, olive skin, a thin build, and clean-shaven. The rideshare driver has been ruled out as a suspect.
Detective Senior Constable Trelawny Hand urged anyone with information to come forward to Crime Stoppers, emphasizing that someone likely knows this man and that coming forward could prevent further incidents. The victim echoed this plea, noting that all women deserve to remain safe and that many have experienced similar traumas.
