Man Charged with Murder of Tatiana Dokhotaru in Sydney

New South Wales Police have charged a 28-year-old man with the murder of 34-year-old Tatiana Dokhotaru, three months after she was found deceased in her Liverpool apartment. The man, believed to be Ms Dokhotaru’s estranged partner, was previously facing 22 charges of alleged domestic violence.

On May 26, authorities responded to a call from Ms Dokhotaru’s residence but only reached the location the following day. The call was reported after her partner allegedly smashed a television in the apartment but was terminated before Ms Dokhotaru could provide her full address. Last week, police shared CCTV footage believed to show a phone being thrown from her flat, potentially indicating interference during her call for help.

Detective Superintendent Danny Doherty emphasized the importance of the missing iPhone 14 in their investigation. Upon their delayed arrival, officers found the 28-year-old man with Ms Dokhotaru’s body. Though he was initially charged with domestic violence offences, his connection to her death was not immediately established.

Following an extensive investigation, which included speaking with her family in Canada, police arrested the estranged partner in St Clair. After his arrest, he was charged with murder, denied bail, and is set to appear in Penrith Local Court.

Additionally, a separate investigation is underway examining the police’s delayed response to the initial distress call. This review, conducted by Fairfield City Police Area Command, will undergo an independent assessment.