(St. John’s, NL), September 15, 2023 – The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary’s (RNC) Child Abuse and Sexual Assault (CASA) unit has laid 13 additional charges in connection with an ongoing investigation into sexual violence on the Northeast Avalon.
Today, the RNC arrested 32-year-old Markus HICKS of Paradise and charged him with 12 additional charges against four new survivors and an additional charge against a previous survivor.
The ongoing investigation 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.
The accused was charged today with:
- Four counts of disguise with intent
- Three counts of sexual assault
- Possession of child pornography
- Accessing child pornography
- Breach of trust by a public officer
- Making sexually explicit material available to a child
- Luring a child
- Agreement or arrangement to commit a sexual offense
The accused remains in custody awaiting a court appearance.
As this investigation remains active, the RNC continues to seek any information related to acts of sexual violence. The RNC is asking anyone with information to assist investigators to contact the RNC at 709-729-8000. You can also 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. Please report suspicious activity and people to the RNC.
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