Manslaughter parolee charged with alleged ‘violent assault’ of girlfriend in Oshawa

A man out on parole for manslaughter has been arrested again after what police described as the “violent assault” of his girlfriend.

Durham Regional Police allege the man, 33 of Oshawa, hid in his girlfriend’s car without her knowledge. When she returned to the car, he attacked and choked her, police claim.

The victim was able to get free and scream for help. The suspect fled the scene, removing an ankle tracking monitor as he did so.

The Offender Management Unit later tracked the man down in Barrie where he was arrested. Police have not identified him to protect the identity of the victim.

He’s been charged with spousal assault, choking, failure to comply with release orders, mischief and possession contrary to his probation.

Anyone with information about the attack can call the Intimate Partner Violence Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5387.

This is the second major alleged domestic violence incident in Durham Region in the last few weeks following the murder of Jennifer Polak in Ajax, allegedly at the hands of her boyfriend.

The Ontario government is set to declare intimate partner violence an epidemic across the province following several such instances. Durham communities, Hamilton, Brampton and Mississauga have already declared one.

“Domestic violence can take many forms, including physical, emotional, financial, and psychological abuse,” wrote Durham Police, “It knows no boundaries and can impact people of all ages, genders, races, and socioeconomic backgrounds.”

This serves as a crucial reminder that we must come together as a community to support those affected by domestic violence and work towards creating safer environments for everyone,” they continued.

Durham Region has a host of supports for victims of intimate partner violence including;

• Assaulted Women’s Helpline at 1-866-863-0511
• Bethesda House at 1-800-338-3397
• The Denise House at 1-800-263-3275
• Herizon House at 1-866-437-0466
• Muslim Welfare Home at 1-866-666-1115
• Y’s Wish Shelter at 1-888-576-2997

Victim Services of Durham Region also provides a great deal of support 24/7. This organization works closely with police in numerous cases, primarily abuse and human trafficking.