CPS Statement: Gender-Based Violence

Based on a number of media inquiries, we are releasing the following statement, which can be attributed to Calgary Police Service Superintendent Nadine Wagner. 

Every woman has the right to live free from the fear, threat or experience of violence and sexual harassment. We are deeply troubled by the reports of various incidents circulating on social media over the last week or so. We recognize the impact and trauma these events have on survivors and the general public, and we are committed to addressing and preventing gender-based violence.

We know it takes time for survivors to come forward and report, and that these types of events have historically been under-reported across Canada. That is why we strongly urge anyone who has experienced or witnessed an incident to report it to the police.

We will support you in reporting and we investigate every case with the full context of any other reported incidents. For example, it was the reporting of incidents, followed by a thorough investigation, that led us to charging a man in February after several incidents where women were touched in a sexual manner in various communities.

Although we do not have reports of some of the incidents mentioned on social media recently, we are looking into them. We are collating all reports and where possible reviewing CCTV footage and speaking with potential witnesses.

Our officers are also aware of these reports and are being extra vigilant for any suspicious activity that could potentially be connected.

We are also asking the public to be vigilant and to please call 9-1-1 immediately at the time of the incident. Officers will be dispatched to the area to help locate the suspect in a timely manner. If you are a witness, offer aid to the survivors where it’s safe and possible until police arrive.

Every woman has the right to live free from the fear, threat or experience of violence and sexual harassment. We are deeply troubled by the reports of various incidents circulating on social media over the last week or so. We recognize the impact and trauma these events have on survivors and the general public, and we are committed to addressing and preventing gender-based violence.

We know it takes time for survivors to come forward and report, and that these types of events have historically been under-reported across Canada. That is why we strongly urge anyone who has experienced or witnessed an incident to report it to the police.

We will support you in reporting and we investigate every case with the full context of any other reported incidents. For example, it was the reporting of incidents, followed by a thorough investigation, that led us to charging a man in February after several incidents where women were touched in a sexual manner in various communities.

Although we do not have reports of some of the incidents mentioned on social media recently, we are looking into them. We are collating all reports and where possible reviewing CCTV footage and speaking with potential witnesses.

Our officers are also aware of these reports and are being extra vigilant for any suspicious activity that could potentially be connected.

We are also asking the public to be vigilant and to please call 9-1-1 immediately at the time of the incident. Officers will be dispatched to the area to help locate the suspect in a timely manner. If you are a witness, offer aid to the survivors where it’s safe and possible until police arrive.