Editor’s Note: This story contains details of sexual assault. If you are in need of immediate crisis assistance, the Salal Sexual Violence Support Centre can be reached at 604-255-6344 in the Lower Mainland or the national toll-free line at 1-877-392-7583. You can find further resources at the B.C. Government website here.
Metro Vancouver Transit Police (MVTP) say they have arrested a man who allegedly sexually assaulted a teenage girl at a bus stop in Surrey four months ago.
On June 28 at around 9 p.m., a man approached the girl, who was waiting for a bus at the Scottsdale Exchange, police say.
“He allegedly attempted to engage her in conversation and tried to kiss her, despite her telling him that she was only 16 years old,” MVTP said in a news release.
“He then grabbed her buttocks before pulling her into his lap and exposing his genitals to her.”
Two women nearby came to the girl’s aid and confronted the suspect, who then ran away.
Police arrested the suspect on Oct. 16. He was released with conditions to not attend the Scottsdale Bus Exchange as he awaits his court appearance.
Transit police say they will be recommending a charge of sexual assault.
“We understand how difficult it can be to report a sexual offence and commend the victim for coming forward so the suspect can be held accountable for his actions,” said Const. Amanda Steed.
“We are asking the two bystanders who intervened to also come forward and speak with our investigators.”
Anyone who witnesses sexual harassment on transit is encouraged to report it by calling MVTP at 604-515-8300 or texting 87.77.77.