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If the crime you are reporting is an emergency, call 9-1-1.
If the crime you are reporting is not an emergency, you can call the non-emergency line at 604-525-5411 or attend our Front Counter at 555 Columbia Street, New Westminster, BC.
New Westminster – In August 2020, The New Westminster Police Department Major Crime Unit arrested an adult male masseur after an allegation of sexual assault during a massage.
In July 2020, an adult female, New Westminster resident, was receiving a massage at the Healthland Clinic located in the 500 block of 6th Street, New Westminster. The male masseur allegedly sexually assaulted her during the treatment.
The New Westminster Police Department Major Crime Unit detectives identified and arrested the male masseur, who has since been released on conditions with charges of sexual assault being approved by Crown Counsel.
Since the initial media release, Major Crime Unit investigators have identified additional victims who were allegedly sexually assaulted by the same male masseur. “Our investigators believe there may be additional victims who still have not yet come forward,” stated Sergeant Sanjay Kumar. “We want to ensure that if you have been a victim of sexual assault, you will be heard, and we will offer you the resources and ongoing support that you require.”
The New Westminster Police Department has a Special Investigations Unit, to provide a victim-centered approach. Created in 2018, the NWPD Special Investigations Unit (SIU) was created to exclusively investigate sexual assaults. The NWPD SIU consists of one community-based counselor, and one police detective. This team ensures a safe place for a survivor to tell their story. Importantly, the survivor guides the process and can choose to work exclusively with the community counselor or both the counselor and the detective. The survivor also receives assistance and updates from the NWPD SIU beginning at the time of reporting, through to the end of the process, and regardless if it takes place inside or outside of the courts. Ensuring the use of trauma-informed practice, the New Westminster Police Department strives to serve the community by providing support during a police investigation and court proceeding.
Anyone with more information, or who may have been a victim of a similar offence is asked to contact the New Westminster Police at 604-525-5411.
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CONTACT PERSON: Sergeant Sanjay Kumar
PHONE: 604-529-2537
FILE NUMBER: 2020-11069
