Incest, sexual assault charges laid in northern Ontario investigation: OPP

A person sits on the floor in shadow with their head down in this undated image. (File photo/CTV News)

A 35-year-old from central Ontario is facing serious charges, including incest and sexual assault, following a northern Ontario investigation by the Ontario Provincial Police.

The investigation was launched on Monday after a report was received regarding an assault that occurred in Webbwood.

Police said that the sexual assault that was reported was said to have taken place just one day prior, on Oct. 19. The swift-moving investigation led to charges for the accused individual from Fenelon Falls, a community within the City of Kawartha Lakes.

Serious charges laid

As a result of the investigation, the 35-year-old has been charged with sexual assault, incest and failing to comply with an undertaking.

Following the arrest, the accused was held in custody pending a bail hearing and is scheduled to appear in an Espanola courtroom at a later date.

Protecting the victim’s identity

“The OPP will not be releasing the name of the accused in order to protect the identity of the victim,” said police in a news release Wednesday.

This measure is a common practice in sexual assault cases to prevent the victim from being identified through the accused.

Support available

“Victims of sexual assault are not alone,” said OPP.

“If you need support or know someone that does, there are local resources here to help.”

Resources for sexual assault survivors

If you or someone you know is struggling with sexual assault or trauma, the following resources are available to support people in crisis:

• If you are in immediate danger or fear for your safety, you should call 911.
• A full list of sexual assault centres in Canada that offer information, advocacy and counselling can be found at ReeseCommunity.com. Resources in your community can be found by entering your postal code.
• Helplines, legal services and locations that offer sexual assault kits in Alberta, B.C., Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Quebec, Ontario and Nova Scotia can be found here.
• 24-hour crisis line: 1-416-597-8808
• Assaulted Women’s Helpline: 1-866-863-0511
• National Residential School Crisis Line: 1-866-925-4419
• Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline: [phone]
• Trans Lifeline: 1-877-330-6366
• Sexual misconduct support for current or former members of the Armed Forces: 1-844-750-1648

Read about your rights as a victim here.