Police arrest High Park sex assault offender

Police have arrested a man wanted for a sexual assault on June 4.

“That night, a woman was walking alone on a paved pathway when she was approached from behind by an unknown man,” said Detective Adriano Pileggi at a news conference on July 3. “The suspect dragged her into a wooded area of the park where she was sexually assaulted.”

The victim escaped and got help from a passerby who contacted police.

With support from 11 Division and following a thorough Sex Crimes Unit investigation, 35-year-old Cortny Henry of Toronto was arrested on July 2. He was on probation at the time of the offence.

“These are traumatic crimes,” noted Pileggi. “We recognize how incredibly difficult it can be to come forward and we are grateful to the victim in this case for her courage and resilience.”

Believing there could be more victims, Pileggi released an image of the suspect.

“If you have experienced something similar involving this individual or if you have any information that could help in this or other investigations, we encourage you to contact police,” he said. “You will be treated with care, respect and confidentiality.”

As one of the city’s most cherished public spaces, Superintendent Andy Ecklund said the assault caused fear and concern.

“This type of crime is very rare here,” the 11 Division Unit commander said. “No one should feel unsafe walking in their own neighbourhood, let alone in a public park. We want you to enjoy this park and every part of this neighbourhood with confidence. We continue to have officers patrolling the area and remain engaged with local communities.”

The suspect is facing several charges, including sexual assault with bodily harm, robbery, failing to comply with probation and unlawfully possessing a Schedule 1 substance.