A New Westminster man has been charged with sexual assault in connection to “multiple” incidents at his home and workplace.
The New Westminster Police Department Major Crime Unit has arrested an adult male after receiving reports of multiple allegations of sexual assault at his residence in New Westminster and at his place of work in a neighbouring municipality.
According to a NWPD news release, an adult female responded to an advertisement posted in a Facebook group in early December encouraging women to apply for housekeeping work. Shortly after interviewing for the job, the male allegedly sexually assaulted her at a residence in the 800 block of Ontario Street in the Brow of the Hill neighbourhood.
Following an investigation, the New Westminster Police Department Major Crime Unit arrested Mark Anthony Bernardo. After being charged with four counts of sexual assault, the alleged suspect was released on strict and protective court-ordered conditions.
“We encourage anyone with information or concerns to come forward,” said NWPD Sgt. Andrew Leaver in a news release. “We understand the challenges victims face in reporting such incidents and want to reassure the public that we take these matters very seriously, and resources and support are available.”
The Major Crime Unit is working closely with the Victim Assistance Unit and counsellors on this file. The New Westminster Police Department provides a victim-centred approach and a trauma-informed practice.
Anyone with more information about this investigation, or who may have been a victim of a similar offence, is asked to contact the New Westminster Police Department’s Major Crime Unit at 604-529-2430.
