2024-07-23 Press Release

Unknown Male Assaults Female At Her Residence

On the 22^nd of July 2024 police responded to an assault that was reported after the fact. A female reported that on the 20^th of July 2024, she was sitting on her front porch on William St E when a male went up onto her porch and pulled her off and assaulted her physically unprovoked. The female was able to fight back, and the male fled the area.

The male is described as being in his 50’s thin build, buzz cut hair, clean shaven with missing top front teeth. He did not speak to her during this attack. At the time of this offence, he was wearing a black t shirt and blue cargo shorts.

Canvass of the area was conducted and investigation is continuing. Anyone who was walking in the area of William St E and Mary St area around 10 PM on Saturday July 20^th or who would have doorbell cameras that would be of assistance please contact the police.

Fourth Time Bail Hearing for Accused in a Matter of Days

On the 22^nd of July 2024 police responded to the area of Alexander Street regarding a complaint of suspicious activity with a person and vehicle. Investigation revealed that the person, identified as 35 year old Ben Duhamel was released after a contested bail hearing for the third time on the 17^th of July with conditions to abide by. Further investigation revealed the accused was in possession of a controlled substance. The accused was arrested for two counts of breach of his release order, one for being in the town of Smiths Falls and secondly for being outside his residence without a surety. He was further charged with possession of a controlled substance and subsequently held for a bail hearing for the Fourth time this month.

***The charges in these matters have not been proven in court***

The Smiths Falls Police Service urges anyone with further information regarding this incident, or similar incidents, to contact our service at 613-283-0357. Information may also be provided anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).