The Annapolis County District RCMP has arrested a man for extortion and harassment offences.

On April 17, 2021, the Annapolis County District RCMP received a complaint regarding a 36-year-old man harassing a woman and distributing her intimate images without her consent. Police began an investigation and learned that the man was also threatening to post more intimate images of the woman online if she reported him to the police.

On April 21, 2021, Annapolis County District RCMP, with assistance from the Kings District RCMP, executed a search warrant at the man’s residence in Kingston, where he was arrested without incident. During the search, police seized a number of electronic devices.

Jonathon Paul Chase of Kingston has been charged with Harassing Communications, Extortion and Distribution of Intimate Images without Consent. Chase has since been released on a number of conditions and will appear in Annapolis Royal Provincial Court on July 5, 2021, at 9:30 a.m.

Police believe that there may be more victims, and anyone with information concerning this incident is asked to contact the Annapolis County District RCMP at 902-825-2000. Should you wish to remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers toll free at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips App.

Non-consensual distribution of intimate images is a criminal offence that carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison. The RCMP understands that it can have devastating effects on victims, and can cause intense feelings of shame, stress and fear. We are here to help, and encourage anyone affected to report the incident to police immediately.

Source: Release #notw