Investigators with the Sexual Assault Investigation Team of the Integrated Criminal Investigation Division are investigating a sexual assault that occurred on July 15 in Halifax and was reported to police on the afternoon of July 19. Investigators were able to speak to the woman at length late yesterday afternoon.
Sometime between 8:30-9:30 p.m. on July 15, a man driving a taxi on Lacewood Drive picked up a young woman in what is believed to be an older model, four-door white car with a roof light. The man stopped the vehicle on Sherwood Street and when the woman asked how much she owed, the man said he was having issues with his meter and it would take a few minutes to fix. While waiting to pay, the man tried to kiss the woman, then locked her door and touched her in a sexual manner over her clothing without her consent. The woman was able to get out of the cab and go to a friend’s home.
The suspect is described as a man in his mid to late thirties, possibly of Middle Eastern descent, approximately 5’7” with short dark hair, an unshaven face and a pronounced nose. He spoke with an accent and was wearing strong cologne.
Investigators are looking at the possibility that this incident may be related to other recent incidents. Anyone with information about this incident or any other is asked to contact police at 902-490-5016. Anonymous tips can be sent to Crime Stoppers by calling toll-free 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submitting a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca or texting a tip – Tip 202 + your message to 274637.
Sexual assault investigations are very complex. As part of our victim-centered, trauma-informed approach to sexualized violence, we work closely with victims to ensure they’re willing to proceed with a police investigation, which includes giving a statement about the incident and providing a description of the suspect if possible. Police must also ensure the victim’s privacy is upheld and well-being is fully considered; sexual assault investigators have been taking these measures since first speaking with the victim, and we’re now in a position to report this incident to the public.
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Source: Media Release