Detectives from the Acacia Ridge Criminal Investigation Branch are investigating two separate matters of alleged sexual assault and have encouraged anyone with information, or who may have had similar experiences to come forward.
A Richlands man, 39, who works as a massage therapist, was charged with sexual assault after detectives searched the business where he worked.
Police allege the man assaulted a woman who was a massage client of his at his workplace on 19 February
Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Simon Ball said police continued to investigate the matter and that officers were providing support to the woman affected.
“I commend the victim-survivor for her courage to come forward and help police hold the alleged perpetrator to account,” Mr Ball said.
“I want to reassure any victim-survivors that you are not alone, and that there are support services available to you.”
Mr Ball encouraged anyone who may have experienced sexual assault, particularly in a similar context, to reach out to police.
“We encourage anyone who has information to provide in relation to this investigation to come forward directly to us or anonymously to Crimestoppers,” he said.
“Offences of this nature are a despicable breach of trust, and police are committed to pursuing every avenue of investigation to seek justice for victim-survivors.”
The man is expected to face his charge, one count of rape, before Richlands Magistrates Court on 14 April.
In a separate incident, a Heathwood man, 34, was charged with indecent assault after he allegedly sexually assaulted a woman on a public bus travelling along Parkwood Drive.
Police allege the incident occurred at about 6.20pm on 3 March and was immediately reported to Sherwood officers by the woman and bus driver.
The man was arrested several minutes later while he was still on board the bus.
“I commend the woman and the bus driver for taking immediate action to report this matter,” Mr Ball said.
“Offences of this nature are brazen and will not be tolerated by investigators.”
Mr Ball again urged anyone with information, or who had experienced similar interactions to contact police directly or anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
“If anyone has information to assist this investigation, or has experienced interactions of a similar nature, we encourage them to reach out to us,” he said.
The Heathwood man was expected to appear before Richlands Magistrates Court on 24 March.
