North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP is investigating a report of sexual interference at McDonald’s in North Cowichan.
On Nov. 4, just after 12 p.m., officers were called to the McDonald’s at 5883 Trans-Canada Highway.
Following an investigation, it is alleged that Michael Cridland, a 72-year-old man, attempted to touch a 13-year-old girl for a sexual purpose.
“This incident occurred during the lunch hour when many customers were present including a number of youth from the junior high school,” said Sgt. Chris Manseau, spokesperson for the BC RCMP in a news release. “The male was arrested without incident and charged with sexual interference.”
Canada’s Criminal Code defines sexual interference as someone who, for sexual purposes, touches any part of the body of a person under the age of 16 years.
Cridland has since been released with a court date in January 2023 with restrictions imposed on him.
His conditions include no contact with the victim, not attending the McDonald’s at 5883 Trans-Canada Highway, and not being in the presence of anyone under the age of 16 without a sober adult present.
Investigators are hoping to speak with witnesses who were present at the time of the incident. Anyone with information is asked to contact the North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP at 250-748-5522.
The charge against Cridland has not been heard or proven in court.
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