Justice for Canadian sexual assault victim in Seville as DNA helps police catch suspect 20 years later
The case was solved just before the statute of limitations expired, with DNA evidence playing a key role
Police in Seville have arrested a man as the alleged perpetrator of a sexual assault that occurred nearly 20 years ago, just before the statute of limitations expired. The assault case, which was committed in July 2005, has now been solved thanks to a breakthrough in the investigation. DNA analysis, matching the biological profile of the alleged attacker, helped authorities finally solve the case.The assault took place when a young Canadian woman was walking late at night near the Torre del Oro in Seville. At the time, the woman was on her way to catch a flight to Switzerland. The police investigation, which had remained unsolved for years, was reignited with the DNA evidence that confirmed the man’s involvement in the crime, was recognised in connection with another crime.
The authorities were able to make the arrest shortly before the case would have been barred due to the statute of limitations. This critical timing means that the suspect is now facing charges of sexual assault after being linked to the crime through modern forensic methods.
The suspect, whose identity has not yet been revealed, was arrested without incident and charged with the crimes of sexual assault and the crime of injury. Police have not disclosed further information about his background, and investigations are ongoing but have confirmed that the detainee has already been brought before the judicial authorities. The Canadian embassy has been informed, as per standard procedure in such cases.
This arrest marks a significant step in bringing closure to a case that had remained open for nearly two decades. Local authorities have praised the use of new forensic techniques in solving cases that might otherwise have remained unsolved. The investigation continues, and more details may emerge as the legal process unfolds.
Image: Drew Hayes/Unsplash
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