THE New Westminster Police Department Major Crime Unit arrested an adult male after multiple allegations of sexual assault at his residence in New Westminster and at his place of work in a neighboring municipality.

In early December, an adult female responded to an advertisement posted in a Facebook group encouraging women to apply for housekeeping work. Shortly after interviewing for the job, the male allegedly sexually assaulted her at a residence in the 800-block of Ontario Street.

After a fulsome investigation, the New Westminster Police Department Major Crime Unit arrested Mark Anthony Bernardo, who has since been released on strict and protective court-ordered conditions after four counts of sexual assault were approved.

“We encourage anyone with information or concerns to come forward,” said Sgt. Andrew Leaver on Friday. “We understand the challenges victims face in reporting such incidents and want to reassure the public that we take these matters very seriously and resources and support are available.”

The Major Crime Unit is working closely with the Victim Assistance Unit and counsellors on this file. The New Westminster Police Department provides a victim-centered approach and a trauma-informed practice.

Anyone with more information, or who may have been a victim of a similar offence, is asked to contact the New Westminster Police Department – Major Crime Unit at 604-529-2430.