Suspect in Help Solve a Crime Sexual Assault Arrested

Investigators have arrested the suspect in a sexual assault that occurred near Durham College in Oshawa.

On Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at approximately 1:10 p.m., a male sat beside a female on a bench while she was waiting for a bus in the bus loading area, near the main entrance to Durham College, located at 2000 Simcoe Street North.  The suspect groped the victim as she was about to get on the bus.  The suspect then followed the victim onto the bus and attempted to sit with her, however she was able to sit near the driver for safety, before contacting police.

Investigators identified the suspect and on Friday, September 13, 2024, took him into custody.

Ved Pratikbhai PATEL, age 19 from Oshawa is charged with: Sexual Assault, and Criminal Harassment.

He was released on an Undertaking.

Anyone with cellphone, dashcam, surveillance footage, or information about this incident is asked to contact D/Cst. Fitzgerald of the Special Victims Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5316.

If you are sexually assaulted or you witness someone being sexually assaulted on public transit, call police immediately. Victims are also advised to draw attention to the incident, inform the bus driver, and make note of the bus number and suspect’s description.

Anonymous information can be sent to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.durhamregionalcrimestoppers.ca and tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward.

The information in this media release contains facts and circumstances that have been obtained from a police investigation.  These allegations have yet to be proven in court. 

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