An Oshawa sexual assault investigation has resulted in charges against a 23-year-old man, Durham Regional Police say.
Police said officers with Central East Division responded to an unknown-trouble call in the area of Bond Street East and Wilson Road North on Saturday, September 19. According to the force, the complainant had agreed to go to the residence of a man she had met through Snapchat.
Investigators allege the complainant was drugged during the evening and contacted police after regaining consciousness during an alleged sexual assault. Officers found her outside the residence and she was taken to a local hospital, where police say testing confirmed noxious substances in her system.
Charges laid after Oshawa investigation
Durham police said Nicholas Paul Lafrance, 23, of Oshawa, was arrested without incident. He is charged with sexual assault, administering a noxious substance and forcible confinement. Police said he was held for a bail hearing.
The allegations have not been tested in court. No conviction has been made, and Lafrance is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Police seek information about similar incidents
Police said they are concerned there may be other people with relevant information or who may have experienced similar incidents. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Constable Brown of the Special Victims Unit at 1-888-579-1520, extension 5305.
Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or through its online reporting service. Crime Stoppers says tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward.
Police did not identify the complainant. All About Durham is not publishing information that could identify an alleged victim of a sexual offence.
What residents should know
The police release is an allegation-based update from an active investigation. Residents who have experienced sexual violence can contact emergency services in an immediate emergency, and can seek confidential support through local health and community organizations. People following the case should rely on court records and official police updates rather than online speculation.
