Victim finds justice after 26 years as Wodonga man jailed for child abuse
An 80-year-old Wodonga man has pleaded guilty to abusing a girl over about six months in 2000, more than 26 years later.
The victim, now an adult, was present when the prosecutor read her statement to the Wodonga County Court on Monday. The judge heard her statement describing how the abuse had effectively destroyed her life.
The victim had reported the crimes to police in June 2002 but did not make a statement. The victim tried again in August 2016 but was too distressed.
The man, now in his 80s, was in a relationship with her mother and acted as a father figure. He has now pleaded guilty to one count of indecent act with a child and three counts of sexual penetration.
Judge Krista Breckweg noted his offences were extremely serious against a girl aged 14 to 15. He was remanded in custody and will be sentenced in November.
- 14 to 15 years old when abused
- Victim's age
- Now in his 80s
- Offender's age
- About six months in 2000
- Abuse duration
Why it mattersThe 26-year gap between crime and justice shows how hard it can be for child abuse victims to come forward, and how long the legal system can take to act.
AustraliaThe case underlines Australia's ongoing effort to support survivors and ensure that age or delay does not shield offenders from accountability.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
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