A man has been charged with sexually assaulting three young girls near a park in Scarborough, according to police.
The alleged incidents occurred on three separate occasions between June and August of this year. The suspect, identified as 33-year-old John Smith, is accused of approaching the girls, aged 8, 10, and 12, and engaging in sexual acts with them.
The first incident was reported on June 15, when a young girl was approached by a man while playing in a park near Lawrence Avenue East and Markham Road. The suspect allegedly lured her to a secluded area and sexually assaulted her before fleeing the scene.
The second incident occurred on July 20, when a 10-year-old girl was approached by a man while walking near the same park. The suspect allegedly grabbed her and attempted to sexually assault her, but she was able to fight him off and escape.
The third and most recent incident took place on August 10, when a 12-year-old girl was approached by a man while walking near the park. The suspect allegedly sexually assaulted her before fleeing the scene.
Following an investigation by the Toronto Police Service’s Sex Crimes Unit, Smith was arrested on August 12 and charged with three counts of sexual assault and three counts of sexual interference.
Police are concerned that there may be more victims and are urging anyone with information to come forward. They are also reminding parents to speak to their children about personal safety and to report any suspicious activity to the authorities.
Smith appeared in court on August 13 and has been remanded into custody. He is scheduled to appear in court again on August 20.
The Toronto Police Service is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all members of the community, especially children. They are asking anyone with information about this case to contact the Sex Crimes Unit at 416-808-7474 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477).
