A 13-year-old boy was arrested five weeks after two women were allegedly targeted in an attempted sexual assault in Kooyong, Melbourne. The incident occurred on July 14 as the women walked their dogs near Gardiners Creek.
According to reports, a stranger emerged from bushes and grabbed one of the women. She managed to break free, and the man then allegedly approached the second woman, who also fought him off. In the ensuing moments, the women's dogs reportedly intervened, chasing the alleged attacker away.
Footage from the scene showed multiple dogs barking and pursuing a male figure who fled into a tunnel beneath the Monash Freeway. One dog, described as a blue heeler, is said to have latched onto the alleged attacker's leg, tearing his pants.
Detectives from the Bayside Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team conducted an investigation over several weeks, pursuing leads that included public tips. On Thursday morning, officers executed a search warrant at a residence in Boroondara.
As a result of the search, a 13-year-old boy was taken into custody. He was interviewed by detectives and subsequently released pending further investigation. Authorities stated that inquiries are ongoing to determine if the boy may be connected to other similar incidents.
Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Andrew Wise acknowledged the valuable information provided by the community, including reports made through Crime Stoppers, which significantly aided the investigation. As of Friday, police confirmed that no charges have been laid. Investigations continue, and anyone with information, CCTV, or dashcam footage has been urged to contact Crime Stoppers.