Arrest made in historical sexual assaults in Oshawa

Durham Regional Police made an arrest 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.

The name of the accused is not being released in order to protect the identity of the victim.

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

The accused was then arrested, charged and held for a bail hearing.

A message from Durham police declares that sexual abuse can take many forms and can often times make victims feel “isolated and alone.” To help alleviate the stress for victims coming forward, Durham police work in conjunction with Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Care Centre and Victim Services to create a supportive environment where victims voices are heard and valued.

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

If you need support but aren’t ready to contact the police, you can reach out to Victim Services of Durham Region for confidential assistance and resources at https://www.victimservicesdurham.ca/contact

Anyone with new information on this crime can 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.