15 complaints of break-ins, alleged sexual crimes reported at Laval University residence
Complaints involve at least 1 suspect, who police say roamed halls at Quebec City university
The number of complaints stemming from a rash of break-ins and alleged sexual crimes at a Laval University student residence has gone up to 15, Quebec City police said Wednesday.
A police command post is now set up outside the Alphonse-Marie-Parent residence where the incidents are alleged to have taken place overnight Friday.
The complaints involve at least one suspect, described as a man in his 20s, who was roaming the hallways of the residence and knocking on doors.
The alleged incidents, reported mostly by women, included complaints of a sexual nature, ranging from sexual touching to assault, as well as complaints of breaking and entering.
Capt. Mario Vézina of the Quebec City police major crimes unit told reporters Wednesday that the number of complaints could continue to go up.
"We know very well that when it comes to acts of sexual nature, it's often difficult for victims to come forward with a complaint," Vézina said.
He said the presence of the command post outside the residence will hopefully make it easier for others to come forward with complaints or information.
The investigation is progressing rapidly, he said, but it's complicated.
"The reported incidents took place in the middle of the night, it's not well lit, so reconstructing what happened isn't obvious," he said.
Rector booed at vigil
A vigil in solidarity with the complainants was held outside the Alphonse-Marie-Parent residence Wednesday night.
During the vigil, some students booed university rector Denis Brière and interrupted several times when he took the stage to speak.
With files from The Canadian Press