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DNA Proves Guilt in Aged-Care Sexual Assault
11 Dec
Summary
- Burglar found guilty of raping a 76-year-old woman in aged-care facility.
- Victim's DNA found on assailant, refuting his claims.
- Intruder claimed the victim attacked him in the dark room.
A judge has convicted Hayden Carl Skinner, 31, of aggravated sexual intercourse without consent, following a burglary at an aged-care facility in Coffs Harbour on January 1, 2024. Skinner entered the room of a 76-year-old resident, who has since passed away from unrelated causes, intending to steal valuables to settle a drug debt.
Skinner maintained that the elderly woman awoke and attacked him, grabbing him and pulling him onto her bed. He denied any sexual contact, asserting he only broke free after a struggle. However, the court heard that DNA evidence conclusively linked Skinner to the victim, with his DNA found on her clothing, genitals, and fingernails.
Judge Michael McHugh rejected Skinner's claims, noting that the victim was found naked from the waist down and screaming in the hallway. She had provided multiple accounts to her son, his partner, and a nurse, detailing an assault by a masked man. Skinner remains in custody and will face sentencing on February 2.
