Arrest for historical sexual assaults in Oshawa

Durham Regional Police made an arrest on Wednesday in connection with several historical sexual assaults dating back to 1996.

A 66-year-old Oshawa man has been arrested on four counts of sexual assault and sexual exploitation in crimes committed against a minor.

To protect the victim’s identity, the suspect’s name is not being released.

Members of Durham Police’s Central West Criminal Investigations Branch began their investigation into historic sexual assaults involving a minor in February. The victim, now an adult, had come forward to police to report a history of sexual assault that had occurred between 1996 and the present.

The suspect was subsequently arrested, charged and held for a bail hearing.

A report from Durham Police states that sexual abuse can take many forms and can often leave victims feeling ‘isolated and alone’. To help alleviate the stress for victims who come forward, Durham Police are working with the Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Care Center and Victim Services to create a supportive environment where victims’ voices are heard and valued.

If you are the victim of sexual assault, call police at (905) 579-1520.

If you need support but are not ready to contact police, you can contact Durham Region Victim Services for confidential help and resources at https://www.victimservicesdurham.ca/contact

Anyone with new information about this crime should contact A/Det. Giguere of the Central West Division Criminal Investigations Branch at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 2765.

Anonymous information can be sent to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.durhamregionalcrimestoppers.ca. Tipsters may be eligible for a $2,000 cash reward.

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