(St. John’s, NL), September 12, 2023 – The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC) Child Abuse and Sexual Assault (CASA) unit has laid 49 additional charges in connection with an ongoing investigation into sexual violence on the Northeast Avalon.
On Wednesday (Sept. 6), the RNC arrested 32-year-old Markus HICKS of Paradise who was charged with a single count of sexual assault following an 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 CASA Unit was engaged and a Major Case Management Team was assembled to investigate.
Yesterday (Sept. 11), investigators laid charges upon HICKS in relation to five additional cases. The accused has been charged with:
- Three counts of sexual assault
- Attempted sexual assault
- Two counts of possession of child pornography
- Two counts of accessing child pornography
- Four counts of disguise with intent
- Three counts of breach of trust
- Two counts of permitting prohibited sexual activity within a household
- Twelve counts of making sexually explicit material available to a child
- Twelve counts of luring a child
- Eight counts of arranging a sexual offence with a youth
The accused remains in custody awaiting a court appearance.
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.
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.
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. Please report suspicious activity and people to the RNC.
The RNC is asking anyone with information that may assist this investigation contact the RNC at 709-729-8000 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 # 2023-48994
Cst. James. C. Cadigan #775
Media Relations & Public Communication
Royal Newfoundland Constabulary
media@rnc.gov.nl.ca