By Emily Woods, AAP
More than four decades after a beloved grandmother was sexually assaulted in her home, police have arrested an alleged perpetrator.
Jessie Grace Lauder’s loved ones issued an emotional plea for information on January 14 over two sex attacks in Melbourne’s Newport during the 1980s.
“Somebody has gone into the sanctuary of her own home not once, but twice, where she should be the most protected that you should ever feel,” her grandson Malcolm Lauder told reporters.
Police have arrested a man, 69, over the sexual assault of a grandmother more than 40 years ago. (Victoria Police)
Victoria Police announced they had made an arrest on Friday morning.
“A 69-year-old Hoppers Crossing man was arrested in Wyndham Vale and will now be interviewed by police,” a police spokesperson said.
The man has not yet been charged.
Ms Lauder, who died in 1993, was first sexually assaulted on September 22, 1981, when a man armed with a knife confronted the then-82-year-old while she was in bed.
Less than two years later, in July 1983, a man again attacked her when he forced his way into the house as she was getting ready for bed.
The grandson of an elderly woman preyed on by a sex attacker remains hopeful of a conviction. (Rachael Ward)
Sexual crime squad detectives thanked media and the public for providing vital information leading to the arrest.
“Though Jessie is sadly no longer with us, this is a momentous day for her family and in particular, her grandson, Malcolm, who have fought incredibly long and hard for justice for almost 44 years for their beloved Jessie,” Detective Inspector Mark Burnett said.
“This has been a complex, protracted and at times, difficult investigation by members of the Sexual Crime Squad – many of whom have moved to different units over the years – and their determination and perseverance is to be commended.”
