Detectives from the State Crime Command’s Sex Crimes Squad have issued a fresh appeal for information relating to a series of sexual assaults committed on the Central Coast between 1997 and 2000.
Police believe the same man is responsible for six attacks on women and girls aged between 16 and 77 at locations including Shelly Beach, Forresters Beach, Budgewoi Beach, Putty Beach and Wamberal. In one case, three girls were approached by a naked man on a walking track, with one assaulted after falling while trying to escape.
The offender is described as Caucasian, tanned, of solid build, with light-coloured hair and standing between 170 and 180 centimetres tall. He was believed to be in his 40’s at the time and would now be in his mid‑70’s. Police say he may also have intimate knowledge of the Central Coast, Hunter Region and Forster areas.
As part of the renewed appeal, detectives have released an image of a Toyota utility they believe is linked to the man, and say he used a white Hyundai Excel in two of the offences. With previous investigative avenues now exhausted, police are calling for assistance from the community.
“Police never give up on seeking justice for victims,” Detective Superintendent Jayne Doherty said.
“We recognise that as time passes, people’s circumstances and allegiances change. Individuals who may not have been willing or able to assist years ago may now feel differently.”
Anyone with information that may assist investigators is urged to contact police.
