Edmonton man charged with child sexual assault after July 29 warrants; police say more victims may exist
Edmonton man charged with child sexual assault after July 29 arrests; police say more victims may exist and ask public to contact EPS or Crime Stoppers.
Arrest and charges
An Edmonton man, identified by police as 50-year-old Simon Nicholas and also known as Ambrose Nicholas, was arrested on July 29 after warrants were executed in connection with two reported incidents of child sexual assault. Edmonton Police Service (EPS) say Nicholas faces charges that include sexual assault, sexual interference and two counts of breaching a court order. The arrests stem from separate but related complaints that prompted investigators to apply for and execute search warrants. Police have not disclosed additional court dates but say the matter remains an active investigation.
Allegations and how incidents unfolded
According to EPS, in both reported instances Nicholas presented himself to parents as someone they could trust to care for young children. Investigators say that outward appearances and representations by the accused played a role in gaining access to vulnerable victims. The reported incidents share similarities that led investigators to treat the cases as related and to pursue evidence through targeted warrants. Police have stressed that details involving victims are being withheld to protect their privacy and the integrity of the investigation.
Pre-existing court conditions and breaches
Nicholas was already subject to court-ordered conditions at the time of his arrest, EPS confirmed. Those conditions prohibited contact with anyone under the age of 16 and restricted access to locations commonly frequented by children. The two breach counts stem from alleged violations of those conditions, according to the charge list disclosed by police. Authorities say the breaches exacerbated concern for public safety and informed the decision to execute warrants.
Investigators believe more victims or witnesses exist
EPS investigators have publicly stated that, based on the similarities between the reported incidents, they believe there may be additional victims or witnesses who have not yet come forward. The service is asking anyone with information, no matter how small, to contact investigators so information can be properly assessed and corroborated. Police emphasized that even indirect or historical information can be crucial to building a fuller picture of alleged offending. Investigators also said that reports from neighbours, family members or acquaintances could contain leads that assist the ongoing work.
How the public can provide information
The Edmonton Police Service is requesting that anyone who may have information about the cases contact EPS at 780-423-4567. Those who prefer to remain anonymous can submit tips to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477. Police encouraged callers to reference the investigation when speaking with officers or tip lines to ensure information is directed to the appropriate unit. EPS also noted that photos, video, communications or other documentary evidence can be submitted and may aid investigators in corroborating victim and witness accounts.
Support services and safety advice for families
Support is available for anyone affected by sexual violence through local sexual assault support services and through the Edmonton Police Service, EPS said. Victims and family members can seek medical attention, counselling and advocacy services regardless of whether they choose to report the incident to police. EPS urged parents and guardians to take practical precautions when arranging childcare, including verifying identities, checking references and maintaining open lines of communication with other adults involved in a child’s care. Police also recommended that families document interactions and save any communications that could be relevant if a report is later made.
This remains an active investigation and EPS is asking for the public’s help to identify any additional victims or witnesses connected to the incidents reported on July 29. Anyone with information is asked to contact EPS at 780-423-4567 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477. Support services are available for anyone affected by sexual violence through local sexual assault centres or by contacting the Edmonton Police Service.
