Police charge one man in relation to luring and sexual assault of a youth
Earlier this month, we arrested and charged one man believed to be responsible for the luring of a male youth, which led to multiple incidents of sexual assault over the course of several months.
In May of this year, the victim disclosed to police that approximately a year and a half ago, they met an unknown man on Snapchat. The man then began communicating regularly with the victim through the social media platform, and facilitating in-person meetings, ultimately resulting in acts of sexual abuse.
It is believed the suspect was communicating with youth using the Snapchat username JordanNewAct@getpaidnow19.
Subsequently, the Child Abuse Unit launched an investigation that revealed that between June 2020 and May 2021, the man had arranged to meet the victim in person approximately one-to-two times every two weeks. The meetings would occur inside the man’s vehicle, a green Volvo, or a white work van, or sometimes in a camping trailer.
As the investigation progressed, it was discovered that the while the youth was alone with the man, he was sexually assaulted and coerced into providing sexual services in exchange for money.
As a result, Joshua David KLASSEN, 34, has been charged with:
- One count of sexual assault
- Two counts of obtaining sexual services from a minor
- One count of luring a minor
He is scheduled to next appear in court on Monday, Nov. 22, 2021.
The victim has been offered the resources and supports of the Luna Child and Youth Advocacy Centre, which provides wrap-around support for children, youth, and families who have been impacted by severe and complex abuse. For more information on how to recognize the signs of child abuse and what to do if you suspect a child or youth is being abused, please visit their website at www.lunacentre.ca.
The Calgary Police Service encourages anyone who believes they are a victim of sexual assault to report it to police. Victims of sexual assault can report it to police by calling the non-emergency police number at 403-266-1234, or 9-1-1 if they are in immediate danger.
There is no time limit on how long a victim has to report a sexual assault in Canada.
Tips can also be left anonymously by contacting Crime Stoppers using any of the following methods:
TALK: 1-800-222-8477
TYPE: www.calgarycrimestoppers.org
APP: "P3 Tips" app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store
CA #21158145/3889