An Airdrie man is facing six charges of sexual assault in connection with a string of offences in both Airdrie and Calgary. Airdrie RCMP launched an investigation into a series of sexual assaults on Tuesday. The assaults happened at the Walmart on Main Street on Aug. 12 and 29, and the No Frills on Yankee Valley Road on Sept. 17. RCMP say in all three cases, female victims had their buttocks grabbed by a male. In the first and second incidents, the suspect didn’t say anything and left the Walmart. During the third incident, at No Frills, two victims were sexually assaulted. Mounties say the second victim confronted the suspect, who didn’t respond and left the store. Calgary connection As Airdrie RCMP were investigating the string of sexual assaults in their city, they became aware Calgary police were investigating two similar incidents. “Investigators from both agencies reviewed CCTV footage and determined the same suspect was responsible for all six offences,” Airdrie RCMP said in a release. “Investigators identified consistent physical characteristics and clothing, and the repeated use of a red SUV throughout the occurrences.” Police arrested the accused in Airdrie on Thursday. Shawn Thompson, 30, is facing six counts of sexual assault — four for the Airdrie investigations and two in Calgary. Thompson has been released from custody and is scheduled to appear in court in Airdrie on Oct. 1. Airdrie RCMP believe there may be more victims who were sexually assaulted but haven’t yet reached out, and are encouraging them to call the non-emergency line at 403-945-7200. In Canada, there is no time limit on reporting a sexual assault. If you or someone you know is struggling with sexual assault or trauma, the following resources are available to support people in crisis:
