Man charged in 30-year-old sexual assault on young mother in southeast Calgary

A man has been charged in a 30-year-old case that saw a masked intruder break into a southeast Calgary home and sexually assault a young mother who was alone with her toddler.

The intruder broke into the home in the southeast community of Southview on May 4, 1991, Calgary Police Service said in a release Friday morning.

After gaining access to the home, the offender attacked and sexually assaulted the woman before fleeing the scene.

Despite the assault being investigated extensively at the time, no suspect was identified.

Police say investigators continued to review the case over the years and, after advances in DNA science, identified a suspect.

"Forensic technology has advanced significantly since this sexual assault occurred," Staff Sgt. Michelle Doyle of the police sexual assault investigative unit said in the release.

 "We never give up on these investigations, regardless of how much time has passed. Our investigators are dedicated to examining these cold cases to seek justice for victims of sexual assault."

On Wednesday, the team charged Thomas Craig Brodie, 48.

Brodie was charged with house break and enter, sexual assault, disguise with intent, and forcible confinement.

He is scheduled to appear in court on Aug. 6.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Calgary Police Service non-emergency line at 403-266-1234 or submit a tip anonymously to Crime Stoppers.