More arrests in Port sexual assault probe

Niagara Regional Police have made additional arrests in relation to alleged sexual assaults said to have occurred over a 20year period in Port Colborne.

Police on Wednesday arrested Joseph Verreault, 54, and 64-yearold Martin Johnston, both of Port Colborne. Each is charged with sexual assault.

Police said investigators from the sexual assault unit, child abuse unit and domestic violence unit continue to actively investigate the circumstances surrounding the neglect and abuse allegations which, to date, involve nine complainants.

Wednesday’s arrests mark the seventh and eighth person to be charged in connection with the investigation.

The first arrest was made June 25 when officers took a 55-year-old Port Colborne man into custody.

That man, who is not being identified to protect his alleged victims, was accused of committing sexual offences, physical abuse and neglect against several victims, most of whom were members of his immediate family.

Most of the offences are alleged to have occurred when the complainants were under the age of

16. Investigators are encouraging others with information to call a hotline at 289-248-1035 or contact police via email at matthew.hodges@ niagarapolice.ca.