Social media aids in arrest of sexual assault suspect in Nanaimo

Nanaimo RCMP say a sexual assault suspect was able to be identified and arrested within 90 minutes of the alleged offence due to the word spreading on social media.

Around 1:20 p.m. on March 27 near 55 Victoria Road, a 27-woman was approached from behind, grabbed from around the neck and groped.

Police say the woman broke free and was able to run to her nearby workplace, a coworker was then able to take a picture of the suspect before he ran away.

The woman called 911 and posted the picture to social media. Police officers attended the area and tips started to come in due to the social media post.

The suspect, 35-year-old Brett Ranger, was then found at a nearby home and arrested without incident.

Ranger was held for a court appearance on March 28, after which he is being held in custody until April 4.

Editorial Policies Report an Error