In a shocking turn of events, police have finally made an arrest in the case of a beloved grandmother who was sexually assaulted in her home over four decades ago.
The arrest comes after an emotional plea from the victim’s family, who have been fighting for justice for nearly 44 years.
A Family’s Plea for Justice
On January 14, Jessie Grace Lauder’s loved ones issued a heartfelt appeal for information about the two sex attacks that took place in Melbourne’s Newport during the 1980s.
Her grandson, Malcolm Lauder, spoke to reporters, saying, “Somebody has gone into the sanctuary of her own home not once, but twice, where she should be the most protected that you should ever feel.”
The family’s plea clearly struck a chord, as it ultimately led to the arrest of a suspect.
Arrest Made After Years of Investigation
On Friday morning, Victoria Police announced that they had arrested a 69-year-old man from Hoppers Crossing in Wyndham Vale.
The man is currently being interviewed by police and has not yet been charged. This breakthrough is a significant milestone in the case, which has been ongoing for over four decades.
The Case: A Tragic Story of Abuse
Jessie Grace Lauder, a Melbourne woman, was attacked twice in her home during the 1980s.
The first assault occurred on September 22, 1981, when a man armed with a knife confronted the then-82-year-old while she was in bed.
Less than two years later, in July 1983, she was attacked again when a man forced his way into her house as she was getting ready for bed. Sadly, Ms. Lauder passed away in 1993, but her family has continued to fight for justice in her name.
A Momentous Day for the Family
The arrest has brought a sense of relief and closure to the family, who have been waiting for nearly 44 years for justice to be served.
Detective Inspector Mark Burnett praised the family’s determination and perseverance, saying, “Though Jessie is sadly no longer with us, this is a momentous day for her family and in particular, her grandson, Malcolm, who have fought incredibly long and hard for justice.”
The Sexual Crime Squad detectives also thanked the media and the public for providing vital information that led to the arrest.