The Ottawa Police Service is encouraging people to take “reasonable personal-safety precautions” when travelling alone or in isolated areas after receiving more than 10 reports of sexual assaults, including incidents involving strangers, across Ottawa since the end of June. Police say investigators in the sexual assault and child abuse section have received several reports of sexual assaults, “including incidents involving victims who were approached or attacked by people they did not know.” “Based on the information available at this time, investigators do not believe the incidents are connected,” police said in a media release. “Each case continues to be investigated on its own facts and evidence. However, the circumstances of some of the reported assaults are concerning, and residents are being encouraged to remain aware of their surroundings and report suspicious behaviour.” On Wednesday, police said a woman pushing a child in a stroller was sexually assaulted by a man armed with a knife on a pathway in the east end. The incident happened in the area of Truro Street and Carpenter Way, near the Aviation Pathway, at approximately 5 p.m. on Tuesday. “The sexual assault and child abuse section is also investigating other recently reported sexual assaults, including stranger-based incidents,” police said. “Some of these investigations have resulted in arrests and charges, while others remain ongoing. The charges have not been proven in court.” Police are offering several suggestions for safety precautions, including using well-lit and populated locations when walking, letting someone know your anticipated route and arrival time, and contacting police when a person or situation causes concerns. “These are concerning incidents, particularly those involving victims who reported being approached by someone they did not know,” Deputy Chief Patricia Ferguson said in a statement. “Our investigators are working to identify those responsible and advance each investigation. We are asking members of the public to remain attentive, look out for one another and report suspicious behaviour.” Supt. Heather Lachine told CTV News Ottawa the unit has received more than 10 reports of sexual assaults since the end of June. “We don’t see something as high as what we’re seeing right now. It’s very concerning,” Lachine said. “Every sexual assault is concerning to us as a police service, but particularly when subjects are not known, we find it very concerning.” Lachine recommends people “pay attention to your surroundings” while out in Ottawa. “Just pay attention to what is happening around you. If you see something suspicious, report it, and just remain vigilant.” Anyone with information is asked to contact the Ottawa Police Service’s sexual assault and child abuse section at 613-236-1222, extension 5944.
