Courtesy of Tamara Shephard, zuzu.com
Toronto police Sex Crimes Unit is investigating a number of sex assaults that occurred in the early hours Tuesday in south-central Etobicoke. Insp. Gerry Cashman of 22 Division reported a man broke into six homes between midnight and 5 a.m. on Sept. 18.
A man sexually assaulted some women in their homes. The women’s ages vary from “young to old”. Thefts occurred in some homes. “We want him off the street as quickly as possible,” Cashman told reporters. “We consider him to be a very, very serious offender. We want him off the street.”
Cashman urged the man to contact a lawyer and turn himself in to police. The assaults and break-ins happened in the area bounded by Bloor Street West, Islington Avenue, The Queensway and the Humber River.
Currently, there is no evidence to link the overnight Tuesday break-in sex assaults to other break-in sex assaults that occurred in south Etobicoke in the early morning hours of Friday, Sept. 7, Cashman said. “We can’t say with any kind of certainty” a connection exists, he said. “We’re investigating that, as well. If we find any kind of link, we’ll be investigating that.”
Cashman said a man broke into a “multitude of homes” Tuesday morning, not just women’s homes. Men were among the break-and-enter victims, he said. No one was hospitalized.
York Regional Police assisted with an aerial search using its helicopter as officers canvassed the area for evidence and to speak with residents. A task force of 22 Division and sex crimes’ officers will be posted in the area “24 hours a day right now,” Cashman said.
Police would only describe the suspect as a six-feet tall male with a slim build. Police are urging residents to activate alarm systems in their homes if they have them. Check to ensure their homes’ doors, windows and garages are locked. Check on their neighbours’ safety. Report any suspicious activity, or any evidence of a break-in, to police immediately.
“The message I would get out to the public is, ‘Be cognizant of their homes. Be aware of their house.Check their windows at night to make sure they’re locked. Make sure their garage is locked.Keep a phone by the bed.’ “We’re not trying to create panic here. We just want to ensure people are safe.” Cashman also urged area homeowners with home security cameras to check their footage for any evidence that would assist police in their investigation.
Anyone with information is urged to call police at 22 Division at 416-808-2200, Toronto police Sex Crimes unit at 416-808-7474, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online at www.222tips.com or text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637).