Ottawa Police Sexual Assault Charge Announced in March Case
An Ottawa police sexual assault charge has been laid against a 50-year-old man following an investigation into an alleged incident that took place in late March near Colonel By Drive. Police say the case remains under investigation, and officers are continuing to ask witnesses and anyone with possible dashcam footage to come forward.
According to the Ottawa Police Service, the alleged sexual assault happened late on Saturday, March 28, in the area beneath the Mackenzie King Bridge. The incident was later reported to police, and the Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Unit took over the investigation.
Police said investigators identified a suspect during the course of the case and made an arrest on May 25. The accused has been identified by police as 50-year-old David Cheddesingh.
As with all criminal cases, the charge is an allegation that must be tested in court. The accused is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Police Say Investigation Remains Ongoing
Ottawa police have said the investigation is not finished. That detail is important because officers believe there may be more information available from the public. Investigators are specifically asking anyone who was in the area around Colonel By Drive during the time of the alleged incident to contact police.
The reported timeframe was between approximately 11 p.m. and midnight. Police are especially interested in hearing from drivers who may have been travelling along Colonel By Drive and could have dashcam footage from that area.
Even small details can become important in a police investigation. A passing vehicle, a person walking nearby, security footage, or dashcam video may help investigators understand what happened before, during, or after the alleged incident.
Why Witness Information Matters
In sexual assault investigations, witness information can help police build a clearer timeline. Not every witness realizes they saw something important at the time. A person may have noticed someone walking, a vehicle stopping, unusual behaviour, or activity near a bridge or roadway without knowing it was connected to a police investigation.
Dashcam footage can also be valuable because it may capture movement, vehicles, people, or timing details that are difficult to reconstruct later. Investigators often review video to confirm locations, establish timelines, and identify potential evidence.
Ottawa police are asking anyone with information to contact the Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Unit. People who want to remain anonymous can also provide tips through Crime Stoppers.
Public Safety Concerns After the Charge
The case has drawn public attention because it involves an alleged sexual assault in a public area near a busy part of central Ottawa. Colonel By Drive and the Mackenzie King Bridge area are close to transit routes, downtown movement, pedestrian paths, and major city landmarks.
For many residents, news of a sexual assault investigation can raise concerns about safety, especially during late-night hours. Police appeals for witnesses also remind the public that investigations often depend on community cooperation.
However, it is also important to avoid speculation. Police have released limited information, and the case will continue through the legal process. Responsible reporting should focus on confirmed details, the public appeal for information, and the legal status of the charge.
Respecting Survivors and the Legal Process
Sexual assault cases require careful and respectful coverage. The identity of any complainant or possible victim should not be exposed. Details should not be sensationalized, and unverified claims should not be treated as fact.
At the same time, public awareness can be important when police are seeking witnesses or additional information. Sharing police contact details may help investigators find people who were in the area or who may have relevant video.
The legal process will determine what happens next. A charge does not equal a conviction. Courts will consider evidence, arguments, and legal standards before any finding is made.
Ottawa Police Ask Possible Victims to Come Forward
Police have also said investigators believe there could be additional victims. This does not mean more charges have been proven or confirmed, but it does show why officers are continuing to appeal to the public.
People who believe they may have information related to the case are encouraged to contact police directly. Anyone who feels unsafe or uncertain about reporting can also seek support from victim services, crisis lines, community organizations, or a trusted person before making a decision.
Sexual assault reporting can be difficult, and survivors may need time, privacy, and support. Public messaging around these cases should encourage people to come forward without pressure, blame, or judgment.
What Residents Should Know
Residents who were near Colonel By Drive beneath the Mackenzie King Bridge late on March 28 may want to review any dashcam or personal video they still have from that night. Businesses, building managers, or nearby property owners may also want to check whether any security footage from that timeframe was preserved.
Anyone with information can contact the Ottawa Police Service Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Unit. Anonymous tips can be made through Crime Stoppers.
The case remains active, and police may release more information as the investigation continues or as the matter moves through court.
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