Man charged with sexual assault after alleged attack on woman at Melbourne airport
A man has been charged with sexual assault over an alleged attack on a woman at Melbourne Airport at the weekend.
Worryingly, the Australian Federal Police say more women may have been victims and have called for anyone who may have been touched inappropriately to come forward.
Airport staff raised the alarm with AFP officers that a woman had allegedly been touched inappropriately by a man unknown to her on Sunday.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.While searching for the man, police say they were made aware of four similar alleged assaults.
The man was quickly located and charged with sexual assault, contrary to section 40(1) of the Crimes Act 1958 (Vic). The maximum penalty for the offence is 10 years’ imprisonment.
A review of CCTV footage showed another three women may have also been assaulted by the man, who was described as of Asian appearance.
He was 170cm tall with a slightly grey goatee beard and wearing a green beanie, a black hooded jumper and carrying a large black bag over his shoulder.
AFP Detective Acting Superintendent Emily Nicholson said the AFP took a zero tolerance approach to anti-social and illegal behaviour at our airports.
“It is quite troubling that these alleged sexual assaults took place in a public place in full view of a number of witnesses,” A/Supt Nicholson said.
“We believe there may be other potential victims who subsequently boarded flights that we are yet to get in contact with.
“If you have any information, please call the Police Assistance Line on 131 444 or Airport Watch on 131 237. All information received will be treated confidentially.”
The Melbourne man, 42, is due to appear before Broadmeadows Magistrates Court on December 5.
Investigations are ongoing.
