Police in New South Wales have arrested a 77-year-old man in connection with a series of sexual assaults that took place in the 1990s in Dubbo, Wollongong, and Sydney. This arrest was made possible by advanced DNA analysis technology, specifically forensic investigative genetic genealogy (FIGG), which allows investigators to match crime-scene DNA against public DNA databases. This innovative technique has been instrumental in solving cold cases and is known for its role in identifying the Golden State Killer in the United States.

The accused was taken into custody in South Kempsey, and the alleged incidents were reviewed and linked back to him through the sophisticated DNA matching process. The use of FIGG helps police to identify suspects by comparing unknown DNA samples from crime scenes to genetic information stored in public databases, often finding connections through distant relatives. This kind of forensic approach has gathered increasing traction within law enforcement agencies to tackle old cases that have remained unsolved for years.

As the legal process unfolds, the 77-year-old suspect is expected to appear at a bail court hearing later today. The implications of this case highlight not only the effectiveness of modern forensic technology in solving historical crimes but also raise discussions about privacy concerns related to the use of public DNA databases in criminal investigations. Police continue to advocate for the integration of such technologies to aid in solving similar unsolved cases across the region.