Jay Petagna: Grafton man faces Byron Bay sexual assault charges

A Grafton man accused of a Byron sexual assault over 20 years ago has fronted court.

A Grafton man accused of a Byron sexual assault over 20 years ago has fronted court.

South Grafton man Jay Petagna, 49, appeared before Byron Bay Local Court on Monday relating to charges over an alleged sexual assault of a Byron woman in the 1990s.

Police will allege Mr Petagna confronted a 23-year-old woman inside her home in Byron Bay on October 23, 1998 before assaulting, threatening and sexually assaulting her.

Police will also allege he detained the woman for a period of time.

The alleged victim was not known to the man.

No arrests were made at the time despite an investigation conducted by Tweed and Byron Police Officers.

The case was reopened last year following a cold case review with evidence and exhibits re-examined.

Mr Petagna was arrested last Wednesday in his South Grafton home and charged with aggravated break and enter with intent to commit a felony, aggravated sexual assault inflicting actual bodily harm, and forcible abduction of a woman with intent to carnally know.

Mr Petagna remained silent during his videolink appearance on Monday, heavily suited up in Covid-19 personal protective equipment.

His solicitor Amy Barker said Mr Petagna would apply for bail at a later date.

He did not enter any pleas.

The matter was adjourned to July 18 for brief service mention before Byron Bay Local Court.