Man charged over alleged rape of woman in Brisbane’s west
Queensland Police have charged a 32-year-old man after an alleged sexual assault in Brookfield, in Brisbane’s west. Police said a 23-year-old woman had been walking with a family member about 6:30am when the pair became separated. Detective Superintendent Andrew Massingham said police will allege the man approached the woman from behind and dragged her into nearby bushes. The alleged assault continued for some time before the man left the area and went to work, police said. The woman then crossed a creek and bushland to reach Brookfield Showgrounds Oval, where she contacted family and police. Police said they identified the man’s vehicle after it allegedly passed the scene later that day. He was arrested on a nearby street and charged with six counts of rape, as well as stalking, assault with intent to commit rape, assault occasioning bodily harm and deprivation of liberty. All charges relate to one alleged incident, and police said they are not seeking anyone else. The matter was heard in Brisbane Magistrates Court, although the accused did not appear and no bail application was made. He is due to return to court on September 18. Police said the woman had suffered injuries and was receiving medical and psychological support. A crime scene remains in place, with increased police patrols expected in the area. The case is significant for Brisbane because it concerns an alleged attack in a popular walking area of the city’s west. Police have also highlighted the role of community members and dashcam footage in identifying the alleged offender.
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