RNC CHARGES MAN WITH SEXUAL VIOLENCE OFFENCES

(Oct 28th)

The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC) has charged a 28-year-old man with multiple sexual offences following an investigation into two reported sexual assaults in downtown St. John’s.

On October 19, the RNC received a report from a cab driver regarding an altercation that occurred inside his taxi while driving in downtown St. John’s. The two individuals involved had left the area before officers arrived.

During the investigation, police determined that a sexual assault had occurred, and the RNC’s Child Abuse and Sexual Assault (CASA) Unit was engaged.

On October 24, officers became aware of another sexual assault that had occurred the previous week involving the same suspect.

Major Gebrehiwet, 28, is scheduled to appear in court today, October 28, facing two counts of sexual assault, sexual interference, obtaining sexual services from a person under 18, and fraudulently obtaining transportation.

The RNC encourages survivors of sexual violence to seek help from a trusted resource as soon as it is safe to do so.

Members of the CASA Unit are available to speak with anyone who has information or questions. Officers take a trauma-informed approach, providing information about legal and investigative options while directing survivors to appropriate resources based on their individual circumstances and needs.

Anyone wishing to contact the RNC can call 709-729-8000. In an emergency, call 911.