Michael Martin, 69, appears at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on historic rape charges
A Hoppers Crossing man who allegedly raped an elderly woman more than 40 years ago will cross-examine up to three witnesses while police work through “complicated DNA evidence”.
Wyndham Leader
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A man who allegedly raped an elderly woman in her home twice — two years apart — more than four decades ago will cross-examine up to three witnesses as police work through “complicated DNA evidence”, a court has heard.
Dressed in a blue blazer and white T-shirt Michael Martin, 69, of Hoppers Crossing, appeared for committal mention at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Thursday on historic rape and burglary charges.
It’s alleged Mr Martin allegedly broke into the home of Jessie Grace Lauder in Melbourne’s west and sexually assaulted her twice, two years apart.
Mr Martin is believed to have lived “directly across the road” from Ms Lauder on Mason St, Newport with his mum and siblings, allegedly sexually assaulting Ms Lauder in 1981 and again in 1983.
After the second alleged incident forensic samples were taken from Ms Lauder but police were unable to identify a suspect.
Ms Lauder, who was aged in her 80s at the time of the alleged offending, died in 1993.
Mr Martin was granted bail in January.
On Thursday Mr Martin was booked in for a one-day committal hearing where he will cross-examine up to three witnesses.
His legal team raised concerns about the “complicated” DNA evidence in the matter, raising concerns as to whether much of the police evidence would be permissible given the significant time lapse.
Mr Martin’s DNA was identified after a familiar DNA match with his siblings.
Police said it would take about four months for all the DNA evidence to be fully disclosed.
Mr Martin will return to court in October.
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