(St. John’s, NL), September 26, 2023 – The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC) has identified additional social media accounts linked to an investigation of sexual violence in the province.

To date, the RNC has laid 63 sexual violence related charges against 32-year-old Markus HICKS of Paradise in connection with an ongoing investigation that began on August 23 when the RNC received information related to the use of fictitious identities, social media applications, and concealment to arrange sexual acts. The RNC’s Child Abuse and Sexual Assault Unit was engaged and a Major Case Management Team was assembled to investigate.

The investigative team has identified additional fake social media accounts believed to have been used by the accused to communicate with individuals to arrange sexual acts while concealing his true identity.

• Maria Winchester – This name is believed to have been used historically and may have communicated with individuals across the province on social media and chat platforms.
• Brittany Campbell – This name was primarily used on social media platforms.
• Bradol15 – This username identified themselves as a male and is believed to have communicated on multiple social media and dating applications.

Investigators have also received information to link the accused to an address on Bullocks Town Road in Torbay, NL. The dedicated members of the RNC’s investigative team are available to speak with anyone that has information or has questions about the process. With a trauma-informed focus, the officers prioritize the safety and well-being of all individuals. As this investigation remains active, the RNC continues to seek any information related to acts of sexual violence. A dedicated e-mail has been established to reach the investigative team directly. Please contact trust@rnc.gov.nl.ca with any information. You can also call the RNC at 709-729-8000 and provide information anonymously via Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) , online at www.nlcrimestoppers.com or by using the P3Tips app #SayItHere.

Additionally, the Journey Project, an initiative of the Public Legal Information Association of NL and End Sexual Violence NL, is a reliable support for survivors of sexual violence. Legal Support Navigators are available to help survivors navigate the justice system. Please visit The Journey Project to learn more. Victim Services is a free, voluntary and confidential service of the Department of Justice and  Public Safety. Victims of violence, such as sexual assault, receive priority for services. Visit victimserviceshelp.ca.

Parents and guardians should be aware that this investigation may create anxiety in children and youth who use various social media platforms. The RNC recommends taking this opportunity to discuss the associated risks of sharing personal and private information online. Everyone should be wary about speaking with people online that you do not know personally. Pictures and profiles can be fictitious and the person you are speaking with may not be who they seem to be.

At a media availability today, Clinical Child Psychologist, Dr. Janine Hubbard offered some advice to parents:

• Schedule a time to sit down with your children.
• Promise a non-judgmental, non-punitive discussion space.
• Ask what have they heard and answer questions as appropriate.
• Validate any and all feelings they may be experiencing.
• Take the opportunity to discuss media safety. Where possible use examples from your own life.
• Keep the invitation for future discussions open.

Anyone experiencing anxiety or crisis as a result of this information, please contact the Mental Health Crisis Line at 8-1-1. In addition, the RNC Mental Health Mobile Crisis Response Team will respond to a crisis where and when it occurs, and can be contacted at 709-729-8000. In the event of an emergency always call 9-1-1.

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File # 2023-48994

Cst. James. C. Cadigan  #775
Media Relations & Public Communication
Royal Newfoundland Constabulary
media@rnc.gov.nl.ca