DNA match leads SA police to alleged predator 34 years after Croydon sexual assault

A northern suburbs man has been arrested more than 30 years after he allegedly abducted and raped a woman while she was jogging in Adelaide.

A man has been arrested after a DNA match linked him to an alleged sexual assault committed more than 30 years ago in Adelaide’s western suburbs.

Police allege around 5am on August 29, 1988, a woman was jogging on Torrens Rd at Croydon when she was allegedly threatened by a man armed with a knife.

The suspect then allegedly dragged the victim to a car, drove to a nearby location and sexually assaulted her.

The woman managed to escape and sought help from a member of the public.

Forensic evidence seized at the time of the assault led to the arrest of a 62-year-old Paralowie man last Friday.

Historic DNA match leads to arrest in 30 year old sexual assault case. Picture: File

He was charged with rape and was bailed to appear in the Port Adelaide Magistrates Court in January.

Detective chief inspector Richard Lambert of the Special Crimes Investigation Section said DNA technology has provided police with increased opportunities to identify people responsible for committing various crimes.

“The impact of these types of crimes have on their victims is everlasting, and SAPOL recognises the importance of exploring all lines of investigation to solve these crimes,” he said.

“While DNA technology continues to advance, SAPOL will also continue its resolve to make violent sexual offenders accountable for their crimes.”