A 65-year-old Whitby man is facing multiple charges after an investigation by the Durham Regional Police Special Victims Unit into the assault of a teenage girl who was employed by the suspect.
Ahmed Ashraf, 65, has been charged with three counts of sexual assault and three counts of sexual exploitation following an investigation into incidents that occurred in 2021. The victim was a 16-year-old girl who was employed by the suspect during a period between July 2021 and October 2021 at a Whitby business.
The Durham Regional Police Special Victims Unit conducted an extensive investigation into the allegations before laying charges. The unit handles cases involving vulnerable victims and works to ensure that investigations are conducted with sensitivity and care for those affected.
Ashraf was arrested on May 27 and subsequently released on an undertaking with conditions. An undertaking is a legal document that requires an accused person to follow specific conditions set by police or the court while awaiting further legal proceedings. The conditions typically include restrictions on contact with the victim and may include other requirements designed to protect the community.
Police have expressed concerns that there may be additional victims who have not yet come forward. Investigators are urging anyone who may have had similar experiences or who has information about this case to contact the Special Victims Unit directly.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts of Durham Regional Police to investigate historical sexual assault allegations and bring charges against those responsible. The Special Victims Unit works closely with community support organizations to ensure that victims have access to the resources and support they need throughout the investigative process.
Anyone with information about this or similar incidents is asked to contact D/Cst. Musial of the Special Victims Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5311. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.durhamregionalcrimestoppers.ca. Tipsters who provide information may be eligible for a cash reward.
The investigation remains ongoing and additional charges may be laid as more information becomes available. Police encourage anyone who has experienced sexual assault or exploitation to come forward, regardless of how much time has passed since the incidents occurred.
