Police appeal for witnesses after alleged sexual assault on elderly woman at Ashtonfield

newy.com.au – Police are appealing for public help after an alleged sexual assault on a woman in her 80s at a park in Ashtonfield near Maitland on Monday night.

NSW Police say the woman was attacked while out walking in Brooklyn Park and are urging anyone who was in the area around the time, or who has CCTV or dashcam footage, to come forward as detectives investigate.

Officers from Port Stephens–Hunter Police District were told the woman was walking through the park, between Kilkenny Circuit and Chelmsford Drive, about 7.20pm on Monday 17 November 2025 when she was knocked to the ground by a male who allegedly attempted to sexually assault her.

Police said the man left the park after the incident and the woman contacted a family member, who then alerted officers.

“The woman was taken to hospital for treatment,” police said.

Local detectives, assisted by the State Crime Command’s Sex Crimes Squad, have launched an investigation into the incident under Strike Force Bosgar.

As part of that investigation, police have released a description of a teenage boy they believe may be able to assist with inquiries.

He is described as being in his mid to late teens, with a dark complexion, and was wearing a black T-shirt and black shorts. Police said he left the scene on a push scooter.

Investigators are appealing to anyone who may have been in or around Brooklyn Park between 7pm and 8pm on Monday, including local residents, drivers and walkers, to check any CCTV or dashcam cameras for relevant footage and to contact authorities if they have information.

Anyone with details that could assist the investigation is urged to contact Maitland Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via the Crime Stoppers website.