RCMP are investigating several possible sexual assaults that occurred at various locations around Red Deer in the 1990s.
“The RCMP have identified a local Red Deer business owner as a suspect, and are seeking information and disclosure from potential victims,” said police on Wednesday morning.
Police said they came into possession of several dated video recordings that show women involved in “what appears to be non-consensual sexual encounters with a Red Deer man.”
A suspect has been identified, however the women have not been identified. It is possible that the women worked in the hospitality industry or visited licenced establishments prior to the video recordings being made.
“It is likely that the females in these recordings may have been drugged or otherwise incapacitated by intoxicants” said Red Deer RCMP Sgt. Ian Ihme. “We understand that this is an unusual request, but we have evidence of a possible crime and we are committed to taking all measures to investigate.”
An RCMP spokesperson said the videos were provided by a member of the public.
“That person, who provided the videos, is not believed to be involved,” said the spokesperson.
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RCMP are not releasing any more detail at this time. Should someone call in with allegations not connected to this case, they will be followed up as well.
“Certainly the investigators are aware that’s the potential from putting this call out to the public. But they are prepared to investigate any (allegations) that come forward and they hope that people will.”
Under Canadian law, there is no statute of limitations for serious indictable charges.
Red Deer RCMP said they understand how difficult it may be to discuss the trauma associated with sexual assault. Those who have been the victim of sexual crimes are encouraged to contact the Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre at casasc.ca to get support and to discuss past traumatic experiences with no pressure to report to the police. The Red Deer RCMP partners with CASASC to provide the Supportive Reporting Program.
Victims can get counselling from CASASC and when they are comfortable can report the offence to a plainclothes, trauma-trained police officer, with the support and presence of their counsellor.
Anyone who believes they were a victim of the above sexual incidents in the 1990s, or have information about these video recordings, can contact the Red Deer RCMP at 403-343-5575.
To remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.
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