Overview
- Police arrested 77-year-old Robert Wayne Kwan at a South Kempsey property and charged him over sexual assaults reported in 1991, 1996 and 2002 in Glendenning, Kanahooka and Dubbo.
- Investigators linked the three cases to the same male DNA profile during a 2022 review of historic sexual-assault files using advanced analysis.
- Forensic investigative genetic genealogy was then used to identify a close relative of the unknown profile, which directed detectives to the accused.
- The charges span multiple counts related to sexual assault as well as detaining a person and attempting to choke, with prosecutors outlining offences against victims aged 11, 16 and 26.
- Kwan appeared in bail court, remains in custody, and is due to reappear at Kempsey Local Court on April 22, as police highlight governance limits on database access and urge public opt-in to assist future cases.