Video evidence in rape charges

A MAN has allegedly been recorded raping a woman in Melbourne’s west.

Sexual crime squad detectives recently arrested two men as part of a probe into multiple sexual assaults in the Melton area over the past 12 months.

A 39-year-old Harkness man has now been charged with rape after being arrested last month as part of an investigation into one of the attacks last year.

A police spokeswoman said the matter was reported after a witness became aware the alleged incident had been recorded. The man remains in custody on remand.

Another man, a 46-yearold from Melton South, was arrested seven days later on August 24. The man was also charged with rape and was due to face Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday for a bail application.

Police raided his home and seized electronic and storage devices, which have been the subject of a significant investigation by both the sexual crimes and cybercrime squads.

As a result, detectives believe they have identified a number of further incidents that are sexual assaults.

“These matters are being investigated,” police said.