The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) are investigating decades of sexual abuse that allegedly occurred at a Nova Scotia youth detention centre, involving at least 70 victims who were youth at the time.
RCMP Corporal Chris Marshall told The Epoch Times on July 13 that this investigation, called Operation Headwind, has been ongoing for four and a half years but made public for the first time on July 12. It is not known how long the investigation will continue.
“Our investigators continue to diligently gather information and evidence. We anticipate that the investigation will continue for some time, however putting a timeline on how long, would be a disservice to the survivors who had the courage to come forward,” said Corp. Marshall.
“We can report that the investigation is progressing and our investigative team is happy with the progress they are making,” said Corp. Marshall. The officer also said that the investigation started as a result of a complaint made directly to the RCMP.
“Investigators believe there are more survivors and people in the community who have additional information regarding this investigation and are encouraging them to come forward,” according to an RCMP news release on July 12.
Massive Investigation
Sergeant Brian Fitzpatrick, a veteran sex crimes investigator and the lead investigator of Operation Headwind, said at a news conference at RCMP headquarters on July 12 that this is the biggest investigation he has ever been involved with in his 19 years of law enforcement service.RCMP has opened a confidential toll-free hotline for victims or those who may have information on the case. Officers have not disclosed information about the alleged suspect or suspects in the case, or if it involves multiple perpetrators.
“We’re ready to listen to their story. If they’re not ready to come forward yet, when they’re ready, we will be here,” said Sgt. Fitzpatrick.
Inspector Don Moser, from RCMP assistant support services, also spoke at the news conference.
“After investigators identified more than 30 survivors and recognize that there could be hundreds more, the Nova Scotia RCMP assembled a larger dedicated investigative team,” said Insp. Moser.
Constable Shannon Herbert, one of the investigators, said the RCMP is focused on survivor well-being.
“We take that very seriously and after the fact we want to make sure that they have the support that they need,” said the officer.
“They have had difficult lives as adults; the vast majority have been in and out of prison,” said Mr. Dull.
The lawyer said his first client came forward in 2017, with allegations he was sexually abused as a youth at the jail. Mr. Dull said he has since been inundated with other calls, and that the same situation allegedly happened “to dozens and dozens of young boys over three decades.”
The province said it was cooperating with police with regard to the very “concerning” allegations and were taking the matter “very seriously.”
“The individual referenced in the class action lawsuit is no longer an employee of the province. As that matter is before the court, we are not able to provide further comment at this time,” said Deborah Bayer, a spokesperson with the justice department.