Sexual assaults in Downtown core; police seeking other victims

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Friday, October 1^st 2021     12:00pm 

(Ottawa) — The Ottawa Police Service Sexual Assault and Child Abuse (SACA) Section is informing the public about Sexual assaults in the Downtown area that likely involve the same suspect. 

Between December 2020 and September 2021, SACA received three reports of incidents that occurred in the street in the vicinity of Murray Street/King Edward Avenue/Dalhousie Street between 8pm and 11pm. The suspect, who targets sex trade workers, approaches them and pulls them off the street to sexually assault them. Afterwards, he then flees the scene on foot.

With all reported incidents, the suspect has been described as a Black male, 20-30 years old, 6’0” (183cm), thin build with short black hair. He spoke English with victims.

SACA investigators established a possible link between the incidents in September and are concerned there could be other victims. There are also potential witnesses to these sexual assaults that police would like to speak to.

Community supports and resources are available to victims by contacting the Ottawa Police Victim Support Unit at 613-236-1222, ext. 2223.

SACA Investigators will respect a victim’s wish to pursue or not pursue an investigation. Regardless, the reporting of incidents of violence against women to police is key in identifying suspects and determining crime trends.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Ottawa Police Service Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Unit at 613-236-1222, ext. 5944.

Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 or at crimestoppers.ca.

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CONTACT: 

Media Relations Office

Tel: 613-236-1222, ext. 5366