80-Year-Old Charged in Sydney Aged Care Assault Granted Bail
SYDNEY: An 80-year-old man, William John Newbold, charged with sexually assaulting an 87-year-old woman with cognitive impairment at a Sydney aged care facility, has been released on bail, reported Sydney Morning Herald.
Newbold allegedly assaulted the resident in January, entering her room on two occasions. Facing charges of aggravated sexual assault, aggravated sexual touching, and firearm storage non-compliance, he did not enter pleas. Prosecutors did not oppose bail but highlighted the seriousness of the offenses.
Concerns about Newbold’s cognitive health were raised. Conditions include a 500-meter distance from the facility, reporting to the police weekly, and no contact with the victim.
The case returns to court on March 14. The facility has referred the matter to authorities. In a separate incident, a 29-year-old man faces charges for breaking into an aged care home and assaulting a 76-year-old woman in Coffs Harbour.
