By Jolene Ogle
Police are still searching for an alleged rapist in the Noosa Shire, who is accused of raping an 18-year-old woman last week.
According to police, the 18-year-old woman was walking on a secluded walkway in Sunrise Beach at about 2am on Sunday 8 January when she was grabbed from behind by a man and raped.
The offender was described as 180cm tall with a European accent, possibly French. Police are still investigating the incident and are currently reviewing CCTV footage. A black Adidas cap was also found near the scene, but police are not yet sure if the hat belonged to the offender.
Meanwhile, the story of the alleged rape has sparked debate on Facebook with some users asking why the girl was walking home alone and questioning if the move was “intelligent”.
“So sad. Why oh why was she walking alone at 2am,” one user posted.
The comment sparked angry calls for an end to victim blaming.
“Sad, yes, but women have the right to be safe walking anytime,” was one reply.
“Women should be safe walking home anytime, anywhere, wearing anything. How about we put the blame on the perpetrator and not the victim,” replied another user.
Noosa Heads officer in charge Senior Sergeant Steve McReight said women should be safe to walk home anytime and without the fear of rape or violence.
“I agree with the comments,” he said. “Women should feel safe. It should be okay to walk home at night.”
Anyone with information that could assist police is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
