New forensic technology helps solve terrifying Rockingham incident

A 46-year-old man has been charged over an alleged aggravated burglary in Rockingham nearly 12 years ago.

The man, who was wearing a balaclava and armed with a machete, allegedly broke into a home around 9pm on June 19, 2011.

A woman aged in her 50s was home at the time.

The man allegedly threatened the woman before assaulting her and leaving the home.

"The man is not known to the woman and the investigation at the time failed to identify a suspect," a WA Police spokesperson said.

"Almost 12 years later, detectives from the Special Crime Squad recently re-examined an item of interest with new forensic technology, which showed a positive match for the 46-year-old man."

The man was taken into custody on Monday December 18, 2023.

He has since been charged with aggravated burglary and commit on a dwelling, attempted aggravated armed robbery, deprivation of liberty and criminal damage.