An 18-year-old Abbotsford man turned himself in to police at about noon today in relation to a sexual assault that occurred four days ago at a local veterinary clinic.
Const. Ian MacDonald said numerous people contacted the Abbotsford Police Department with tips and information after a photo of the suspect was posted online and in media.
He said the first tip came in through the APD Facebook page just moments after the photos were posted there, and the tips continued to arrive right up until the suspect's arrest. MacDonald said police contacted him, and he then surrendered himself at the police department.
The assault took place at about 8 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 23 at a vet clinic in the 32100 block of South Fraser Way.
A man entered the clinic and began speaking with the lone female employee.
MacDonald said he moved closer to the service counter, and then suddenly moved behind the counter, where he grabbed and groped the 26-year-old woman.
She was able to break free, and she yelled at the suspect, who fled the store. The victim then called police.
The following day, police released photos – obtained from video surveillance – of the suspect, asking for the public's help in identifying him.
Police will be recommending a charge of sexual assault. The man cannot be named until charges are formally laid.