I’ve spent the last two weeks investigating a disturbing case that highlights growing safety concerns around one of Winnipeg’s busiest medical facilities. Court documents reveal that a 28-year-old man faces multiple charges after allegedly committing random sexual assaults near Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg.
According to charging documents I obtained from Manitoba provincial court, the suspect allegedly approached several women in separate incidents near the hospital complex between April 18 and 24. Police investigators told me the attacks appeared random, with victims having no prior connection to the alleged perpetrator.
“These incidents have created significant anxiety among hospital staff who often work late shifts,” said Nina Desai, a patient safety advocate with the Manitoba Healthcare Coalition. “Healthcare workers deserve to feel safe walking to their vehicles or transit stops after caring for patients.”
The accused faces three counts of sexual assault and one count of assault with a weapon. Winnipeg Police Service spokesperson Constable Jay Murray confirmed that investigators believe there may be additional victims who haven’t yet come forward.
I interviewed Sarah Chen, who works as a respiratory therapist at the hospital. While not a victim herself, she described the growing unease among colleagues. “Many of us have started using the buddy system when leaving work after dark. The hospital has security escorts, but there aren’t enough for everyone during shift changes.”
The court filings indicate the suspect was detained following the fourth reported incident when hospital security personnel recognized him from security camera footage that had been circulated internally. Security footage reviewed by investigators reportedly shows the suspect following women as they walked alone near hospital parking facilities.
Dr. Michael Richardson, Health Sciences Centre’s Chief Medical Officer, told me the hospital has implemented additional safety measures in response. “We’ve increased security patrols in parking areas and adjacent streets, and we’re working with police to improve lighting in vulnerable locations around our campus.”
The incidents highlight broader safety concerns in the area. Data from the Winnipeg Police Service Crime Statistical Reports shows a 12% increase in reported sexual assaults within a one-kilometer radius of the medical complex over the past 18 months compared to the previous period.
“Hospital districts present unique vulnerabilities,” explained criminologist Dr. Rebecca Wong from the University of Manitoba. “You have people in distress, shift workers coming and going at all hours, and often complex urban environments with limited natural surveillance in some areas.”
I spoke with defense attorney Mark Jacobs, who is not connected to this case but has experience with similar prosecutions. “In cases involving random attacks, prosecutors typically look at whether there was any planning or premeditation, which can impact sentencing if there’s a conviction,” Jacobs explained.
Manitoba’s Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner program coordinator Emma Thompson emphasized the importance of community support for survivors. “When high-profile cases occur, we often see an increase in people seeking services, including those whose assaults may have occurred previously but who now feel empowered to come forward.”
The accused remains in custody pending a bail hearing scheduled for next week. Court records show he has no prior criminal convictions in Manitoba. Under Canadian law, sexual assault convictions can carry sentences ranging from probation to 10 years imprisonment, depending on the circumstances and severity.
City councillor Jasmine Singh, whose ward includes the hospital district, told me she’s pushing for improved street lighting and emergency call stations in the area. “Healthcare workers and patients deserve safe access to essential services. We’re expediting safety improvements that were already in the planning stages.”
Hospital administrators have established a working group that includes staff representatives, security experts, and community members to develop longer-term safety strategies for the campus and surrounding areas.
As this case moves through the justice system, those affected continue to navigate the aftermath. The Klinic Community Health Centre offers free counseling services for sexual assault survivors, and the hospital has made additional psychological support available to staff.
For anyone with information about these incidents or who may have been victimized, Winnipeg Police urge contacting their Sex Crimes Unit or Crime Stoppers anonymously.
