(St. John’s, NL), April 19, 2023 – The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC) Criminal Investigation Division have launched an e-mail address for direct reporting in relation to the investigation into sexual violence upon youth in St. John’s.
In November of 2022, the RNC Operational Patrol Services Division (OPS) received a report related to historical sexual violence by an adult upon youth in St. John’s. The RNC assembled a Major Case Management Team to investigate the report.
A Major Case Management Team (MCMT) represents a thorough, standardized and systematic process to investigation engaging resources within the Criminal Investigation Division, including the Child Abuse and Sexual Assault Unit. Principles of major case management include delineation of investigative roles and tasks with oversight, coordination and management.
At this stage in the investigation, 62-year-old Tony HUMBY and 80-year-old Bruce ESCOTT have been charged with offences related to sexual violence upon youth in connection with multiple complaints. The accused individuals currently remain in custody.
The MCMT have launched an e-mail address for direct contact to the investigative team at reach@rnc.gov.nl.ca. With a trauma-informed focus, the members of this investigative team place the safety and wellbeing of survivors and witnesses at the forefront. The investigative team can also be reached by phone through 709-729-8000. This investigation is survivor-centered, committed to promoting a safe space with clear communication and accessibility.
The Journey Project is a reliable support for survivors of sexual violence, which is a collaborative initiative between the Public Legal Information Association of NL and the NL Sexual Assault Crisis and Prevention Center. This initiative is available to enhance supports for survivors in navigating the justice system. Please visit Home – The Journey Project to learn more about this community partner.
Anyone experiencing anxiety or crisis as a result of this information, please contact the NL mental Health Crisis Line at 8-1-1. You can also seek support through the NL Sexual Assault Crisis and Prevention Center. In addition, the RNC Mental Health Mobile Crisis Response Team will respond to crisis where and when it occurs, and can be contacted at 729-8000, or in a case of an emergency at 9-1-1.
This investigation remains active, and officers believe there is further information related to these events. The RNC requests that anyone with information to assist this investigation contact the RNC at 729-8000 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). You can now provide information anonymously on the NL Crime Stoppers Website at www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app #SayItHere
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File # 2022-66903
Cst. James. C. Cadigan #775
Media Relations & Public Communication
Royal Newfoundland Constabulary
media@rnc.gov.nl.ca