Richmond Hill — York Regional Police have laid multiple charges against a 30‑year‑old man accused of sexually assaulting two young people on trail routes in Richmond Hill over a two‑day span in mid‑August.
Alleged incidents occurred days apart along Hwy. 7 corridor
Police say the first incident took place on Aug. 12 at about 3:15 p.m. on a trail in the Highway 7 and Bayview Avenue area. According to investigators, an unknown man approached a youth, grabbed her, attempted to cover her mouth and touched her for a sexual purpose. The victim managed to break free and flee the area.
The second alleged assault happened two days later, on Aug. 14 at approximately 11:30 a.m., on a nearby trail. Officers say another young person was approached in the same manner — her mouth covered and touched for a sexual purpose — but she was also able to escape and run for help.
Shortly after the second incident, police located a suspect in the area of Bathurst Street and Highway 7 and took him into custody.
Charges and investigation
York Regional Police have charged Jan‑Hoy Cassells, 30, of no fixed address, with:
- Sexual interference
- Sexual assault
- Sexual assault with a weapon
- Obstructing justice
Investigators from the YRP Special Victims Unit say they believe additional victims may exist and are asking anyone with relevant information to come forward. These are allegations that have not yet been proven in court.
Police say they believe additional victims may exist.
Context for residents and trail users
The incidents have drawn attention to safety on the trail networks that thread through Richmond Hill’s denser suburban corridors. Trails near major arteries such as Highway 7 and Bayview and the Bathurst corridor are frequently used by commuters, school-aged children and recreational walkers. While these greenways offer important active‑transport and leisure space, investigators and community safety advocates say the convenience of trails can be offset by the challenges of ensuring constant surveillance and rapid response.
As investigators continue their work, the police message to local residents is twofold: be aware of surroundings when using trails and report suspicious behaviour immediately. The force has urged anyone with information related to these incidents to contact the YRP Special Victims Unit.
Timeline
| Date | Time (approx.) | Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug. 12 | 3:15 p.m. | Trail near Hwy. 7 & Bayview Ave. | Youth approached, grabbed, mouth covered; escaped |
| Aug. 14 | 11:30 a.m. | Nearby trail | Second youth approached similarly; escaped and sought help |
| Aug. 14 (shortly after) | — | Bathurst St. & Hwy. 7 area | Suspect located and arrested |
For parents, guardians and trail users, the recent events are a sobering reminder of the need for vigilance. Local authorities typically recommend walking with others where possible, carrying a charged phone, and using well‑lit, busier routes. Anyone with information about these allegations is asked to contact York Regional Police’s Special Victims Unit. Tips can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
York Regional Police have not released further identifying details about the investigation. The accused remains before the courts and the allegations have not been proven.
