RCMP seek to identify possible victims of sex-related offences

A Kamloops man has been charged with sexual assault after an investigation by Vernon North Okanagan RCMP. Police believe there may be other potential victims who have not reported similar incidents to police.

This past August, police investigated an allegation of sexual assault where a teenaged victim connected with a man through a social media platform. The accused allegedly portrayed himself as being younger than his actual age and the victim agreed to meet with him in person.

“Once the accused was alone with the victim, she was allegedly sexually assaulted,” stated Cpl. Tania Finn, media relations officer with the detachment. “Investigators believe there may be additional victims who have not already reported to the police. To ensure the safety of our community and to further the investigation, the RCMP is releasing a photo and asking any who may have had contact with this individual to contact us.”

Joel Eric Carlson, 28, was arrested and has been charged with one count of sexual assault and one count of forcible confinement.