A young woman who suffered injuries after a “horrific” assault has been hailed for her bravery by police.
On Thursday morning, a woman in her 20s was walking in the semi-rural suburb of Brisbane, Brookfield, when she was stopped by a man not known to her.
Police said she was near the Brookfield Road Bridge when the man assaulted her just after 6.30am.
He allegedly sexually assaulted the woman several times before fleeing on foot.
On Friday morning, Brisbane Regional Crime Coordinator Detective Superintendent Andrew Massingham said the victim was being provided with the “utmost care”
“I want to acknowledge the victim and recognise her bravery in coming forward,” he said.
“This is an horrific and confronting incident that no-one should ever experience.
“As of this morning, I can say the victim is at home with her family.
“She has suffered injuries as a result of yesterday’s assault.”
Police issued a plea for public assistance on Thursday afternoon, saying that the man was described as wearing black shorts and a black jumper.
Soon after, a 32-year-old man was arrested a short distance from the scene of the crime and taken into custody.
Mr Massingham said two witnesses came forward after the media reported on the incident which was “the final piece in the puzzle (police) needed to solve the horrific crime”.
The man was charged with six counts of rape, one count each of stalking, assault with intent to commit rape, assault occasioning bodily harm, and deprivation of liberty.
He is expected to appear in Brisbane Magistrates Court on Friday.
In response to the attack, police patrols have been increased in the area to “help ensure community safety”; although they said it was being treated as an isolated incident.
“Again I want to reassure the community there is no ongoing risk to community safety,” Mr Massingham said.
“While the matter is first appearing in court today I assure the community that police committed to conducting an extensive investigation to ensure justice for the victim.
“We acknowledge this incident is confronting for the Brookfield community and I want to assure them and the wider Brisbane community as well that we are here to support you.
“You can expect to see increased local patrols in and around the area including police on bikes and the mobile police van will be set up and remain in place for days to come in the area.”
If you or someone you know needs help, contact 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732), or Sexual Assault Counselling Australia on 1800 211 028, the WA Sexual Assault Resource Centre on 6458 1828 or 1800 199 888 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.
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