Detectives release image of man after alleged sexual assault of 83-year-old woman in her Merrylands home

Sex Crimes Squad detectives have launched an urgent investigation after an 83-year-old woman was allegedly sexually assaulted in her Merrylands home by a man who offered to help her carry groceries.

Sex Crime Squad detectives are appealing for information following the alleged sexual assault of an elderly woman in Merrylands. Picture: NSW Police

Sex Crimes Squad detectives are appealing for public assistance following the alleged sexual assault of an 83-year-old woman in Merrylands on Tuesday.

Police were called to a home in the Western Sydney suburb shortly before 5.40pm, following reports of a sexual assault.

Officers were told the elderly woman had earlier met an unknown man near Charles Mance Reserve just after 12.30pm that day.

The man had offered to help carry her shopping trolley back to her home.

CCTV footage from NSW Police of a man who may be able to assist with inquiries. Picture: NSW Police

As inquiries continue, detectives have released an image of a man who may be able to assist with inquiries. Picture: NSW Police

Once inside the woman’s residence, the man allegedly forced entry, sexually assaulted her, then cleaned the scene before fleeing with her house keys.

The woman was taken to hospital for assessment while officers established a crime scene and began inquiries.

The man is described as being of fair skin, with dark hair and a slight beard. He was wearing a black shirt with white panels, dark blue pants, and white shoes. Picture: NSW Police

The investigation was later referred to the State Crime Command’s Sex Crimes Squad under Strike Force Bena.

As part of their investigation, detectives have released an image of a man who may be able to assist with inquiries.

He is described as having fair skin, dark hair, and a slight beard. At the time, he was wearing a black shirt with white panels, dark blue pants, and white shoes.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via the Crime Stoppers website.

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