Sexual assault investigation underway at Welland long-term care facility

Niagara Regional Police are investigating allegations of sexual assault at the Royal Rose Place long-term care facility in Welland. NRP media relations specialist Stephanie Sabourin said police are not specifying details of the allegations, such as when it occurred or whether an employee, resident or visitor is involved. “To protect the integrity of the investigation we are not able to confirm or comment further,” Sabourin said in an email when asked for clarification on the allegation. She said the NRP sexual assault unit has been “working closely” with management of the facility as well as the Ministry of Health and LongTerm Care during its investigation. Sabourin said steps have been taken to ensure the residents at Royal Rose are safe.

She said management has been cooperative in the investigation. Police declined to comment further at this time.

No one was available to comment from Jarlette Health Services, which owns the 6,500-square-metre facility, before press time. Royal Rose Place opened June 2016 on Prince Charles Drive next to the Welland McMaster Family Health Team centre. According to its website, the facility can house up to 96 residents.