This story is from our news.com.au network Source: AAP
Hunt on for library pedophile
July 17, 2006
VICTORIA Police are hoping library users will come forward tomorrow
with vital information to help track down a pedophile who sexually
assaulted a five-year-old girl just metres from her mother.
Detectives yesterday revealed the man lured the girl away from her
mother inside Coburg library, in Melbourne's north last Tuesday, before
assaulting her and fleeing.
Tomorrow, officers will staff an information caravan at the library in
the hope that people who were at the site a week ago will come forward.
"The attack essentially took place over a matter of seconds, only a few
metres away from the mother, in the south-eastern corner of the library
itself and within hearing distance," said Detective Inspector Tony
Cecchin from the sexual crimes squad.
The child was with a friend, and lots of people were at the library at
the time of the assault, which happened sometime between 3.40pm and
4.30pm (AEST).
Det Insp Cecchin said there had been a delay in the incident being
reported.
It is understood the mother of the child mentioned the incident to
police, but did not make a formal report because of fears it would
further traumatise the young girl.
"We were a little bit unclear at first. It is understandable in the
circumstances where you have such a young child reporting this type of
incident.
"It did take us a couple of days to clear up the circumstances - the
facts - and come to a better understanding of what in fact occurred,"
Det Insp Cecchin said.
He said the incident was "particularly disturbing" and urged anyone who
could help police to come forward.
The wanted man is said to be about 170cm, caucasian with dark brown or
black hair and was wearing jeans and a brown jacket.
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