A man accused of raping a beloved 82-year-old grandmother more than four decades ago has faced court for the first time.
Michael Martin, 69, briefly appeared in Melbourne Magistrates Court on Friday after he was charged over the two 1980s sex attacks.
He is facing two counts of attempted aggravated rape, aggravated burglary, aggravated indecent assault, rape, burglary and common assault.
It’s alleged Martin broke into Jessie Grace Lauder’s Newport home on two separate occasions in September 1981 and July 1983.
He is accused of confronting the elderly woman with a knife while she was either in bed or getting ready to go to sleep, before raping her.
The Hoppers Crossing man remained silent as Magistrate Leon Fluxman remanded him in custody.
He was expected to make an application for bail on Tuesday.
His lawyer told the court it was Martin’s first time in custody and the 69-year-old was in remission for cancer but was receiving treatment for a tumour on his neck.
He was also taking medication for type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and prostate issues, the lawyer said.
Earlier on Friday, sexual crime squad detectives thanked media and the public for providing vital information leading to the arrest.
1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)
National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service 1800 211 028
AAP
