A young teenager has been charged after he allegedly stalked and sexually assaulted a female runner on a secluded path.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
A 28-year-old woman was running on the Dandenong Creek Trail in Melbourne's south-east on January 31 when the 13-year-old allegedly assaulted her.
Police said the woman managed to "fight off" the teenager.
He fled the scene on his bike, police said.
The boy, from the Melbourne suburb of Rowville which adjoins the Dandenong Creek, was charged with stalking and sexually assaulting the woman.
He was also charged with false imprisonment of the 28-year-old and assault with intent to sexually assault.
The 13-year-old was refused bail in an out of sessions court hearing. He was expected to appear before the children's court "at a later date".
To report a crime or incident, call Police Assistance Line on 131 444 to report non-urgent crime. Submit an anonymous online report through the Crime Stoppers website, or call 1800 333 000.
Support is available for those who may be distressed:
- Phone Lifeline 13 11 14
- Qlife 1800 184 527
- Kids Helpline 1800 551 800
- beyondblue 1300 224 636
- 1800-RESPECT 1800 737 732