Police in Canada are investigating a series of alleged sexual offences involving at least a dozen elderly residents at a long-term care facility in Saint John, New Brunswick. The victims at Loch Lomond Villa range in age from their 70s to 90s, and officers have identified a suspect who is neither a resident nor an employee of the home.
Employees raised the alarm on 21 January, prompting police to publicly announce an investigation two days later into what they described as “offences of a sexual nature”. Staff Sergeant Shawna Fowler, who leads the force’s family protection unit, said more than a dozen residents are believed to have been affected, adding that the number could rise as inquiries continue.
Police are still in the early stages and have declined to specify the exact nature of the alleged offences—which could range from sexual touching to assault—or how long the abuse may have been occurring. Fowler stated that investigators are interviewing witnesses, gathering forensic evidence and reviewing potential video footage.
A memo sent by Loch Lomond Villa administrators to families of residents confirmed the facility had become aware of a “serious situation” and had immediately contacted authorities. New Brunswick’s provincial health minister, Dr John Dornan, said residents are safe and “not at risk of further violations”. Saint John police have set up a dedicated phone line for families seeking information.
The allegations have prompted renewed calls for stronger protections in long-term care homes. Cecile Cassista, executive director of the Coalition for Seniors and Nursing Home Residents’ Rights, called the reported assaults “disturbing” and “horrific”. “It’s frightening to even think that this is happening in our homes,” she said. “We’re talking about vulnerable people who can’t defend themselves.”
Loch Lomond Villa’s chief executive, Ashley King, said the facility became aware of the situation last week and reported it to police, informing all families of impacted residents. She added that new safety measures and on-site security have been introduced to ensure residents’ immediate safety.
