Story perspectives

77-Year-Old Arrested in Historic NSW Sexual Assault Case

2/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

New South Wales Police arrested 77-year-old Robert Kwan on charges tied to three sexual assaults on young women from 1991 to 2002, the first NSW arrest using FIGG technology.
The investigation used forensic investigative genetic genealogy to compare crime-scene DNA with public genealogy databases.
Detective Superintendent Jayne Doherty said public participation in genealogy databases helps solve serious crimes.
Kwan will appear in court again on April 22.

History

Historical Context

Since the FBI began using DNA evidence in 2000, it has revolutionized criminal investigations, identifying over 300,000 suspects. The recent arrest of Robert Kwan in New South Wales, linked to assaults from 1991 to 2002 through advanced forensic techniques, underscores the importance of public genealogy databases in solving historical crimes and enhancing justice outcomes.

1 of 2

Story summary

New South Wales Police arrested 77-year-old Robert Kwan on charges tied to three sexual assaults on young women from 1991 to 2002, the first NSW arrest using FIGG technology.
The investigation used forensic investigative genetic genealogy to compare crime-scene DNA with public genealogy databases.
Detective Superintendent Jayne Doherty said public participation in genealogy databases helps solve serious crimes.
Kwan will appear in court again on April 22.

1 / 2