DNA evidence leads to arrest over alleged sexual assault of female jogger decades ago

Police have used DNA evidence to arrest and charge a man over an alleged sexual assault more than 30 years ago in South Australia.

It's alleged that, in 1988, a woman was jogging in Croydon in Adelaide's inner west when she was threatened by a man armed with a knife before being dragged into a car and driven to a nearby location where she was sexually assaulted.

The woman managed to escape and ran to a member of the public for assistance.

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Police said forensic evidence seized at the time led to the arrest of the 62-year-old Paralowie man on Friday.

He was charged with rape and was bailed to appear in the Port Adelaide Magistrates Court on January 5, 2023.

Detective Chief Inspector Richard Lambert said DNA technology provided police with increased opportunities to identify people who are responsible for committing all types of crimes.

"This investigation demonstrates SAPOL's commitment to pursue those responsible for committing sexual assaults, including those that have occurred many years ago," he said.

"The impact of these types of crimes have on their victims is everlasting, and SAPOL recognises the importance of exploring all lines of investigation to solve these crimes.

"While DNA technology continues to advance, SAPOL will also continue its resolve to make violent sexual offenders accountable for their crimes."