A social media post regarding an alleged sexual assault in the Beltline neighbourhood — that started circulating on Saturday and has since been shared thousands of times — is being investigated by Calgary Police.
The post said that a woman was attacked and sexually assaulted on March 18 on 5 street between 12 and 13 Avenue.
On Wednesday, Calgary police released a statement:
“We are investigating a report of a sexual assault. Investigators continue to collect evidence and confirm details that would assist us in providing more information to the public.
“We are also gathering CCTV from the area and ask for anyone with information to come forward.
“The CPS is committed to alerting the public when an increased risk exists in the community.”
In addition to the post about the alleged sexual assault, another surfaced with a video where it’s alleged it was alleged that three women were attacked by a group of men on 14th Avenue and 5th street on March 20.
Calgary police also said the incident is under investigation, however that it appeared as though it was actually two groups of people that entered into an altercation.
Police were called to a disturbance at about 10:20 p.m.
“It is alleged that a group of women and one man were walking when approached by a larger group of men. A verbal altercation occurred, followed by a physical altercation.
“Officers are currently reviewing CCTV, speaking to witness and asking anyone who may have been involved in this incident to contact police.
“Everyone has the right to enjoy our downtown amenities without fear for their safety and we are committed to a thorough investigation of this incident.”
On Wednesday evening, Calgary police sent out another statement on Twitter, stressing the importance of evidence and due process.
“Our most recent data does not indicate an increase in offences by strangers against women in Calgary. Regardless, any offence is one too many.
“We strongly encourage anyone who is a victim of harassment, threatening behaviour or assault of any kind to report it to police. We take these matters very seriously and are committed to thoroughly investigating all reports of this nature, and where appropriate, we will charge those responsible for behaviour which is not acceptable in our community.
“Everyone deserves to feel safe in Calgary and any behaviour that makes an individual feel threatened, uncomfortable or intimidated is unacceptable.”
“It is imperative that all allegations are investigated, and evidence is gathered, to ensure a fair and just process. This can take time and we ask for patience.
“Social media is an important tool when it comes to sharing information with Calgarians, especially information that is intended to keep citizens safe.
“However, CPS encourages mindful sharing of information by citizens on social media platforms to ensure it is factual.
“In some cases, unconfirmed information is distributed which can lead to the spread of misinformation and increased fear in our community.”
Sarah McCaffrey used to live downtown and she was shocked when she started to see the posts shared on social media.
“I just noticed an influx of posts regarding a string of incidences downtown,” McCaffrey said. “I just noticed that local media didn’t seem to be reporting the same thing as I was seeing on social.”
McCaffrey said she felt afraid for her friends and those in marginalized communities that live downtown.
“I’m really concerned for friends that live in those areas, especially for friends that are part of the Black, Indigenous and People of Colour community. We know that these folks are even more at risk.”
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