Police perseverance leads to arrest and charge in 1999 sexual assault

Jan 7, 2016 | 11:39 AM

ABBOTSFORD, B.C. — Police have made an arrest in a disturbing sexual assault that occurred in Abbotsford, B.C., nearly 17 years ago.

Const. Ian MacDonald says the attack happened on Aug. 7, 1999, when a 37-year-old woman was sexually assaulted, choked and threatened shortly after leaving a large, outdoor party.

Some evidence was gathered, but the investigation into the stranger-based attack went cold.

Investigators took another look at the case in December 2013 and ordered a DNA analysis on previously seized clothing exhibits.