Guelph Police offer safety tips after ‘a number of sexual assaults’ committed against strangers

The Guelph Police Service is sharing tips with residents after they say the community has seen “a number of sexual assaults” committed against strangers.

It comes after two recent incidents took place in Guelph this month.

A 45-year-old Kitchener man was charged with sexual assault and forcible confinement after a woman was forced inside a stranger’s vehicle while she was out walking in the early hours of the morning on March 14 near Willow Road and Silvercreek Parkway North where she was then sexually assaulted.

In a separate incident that took place last week, witnesses intervened when a woman was sexually assaulted at a crosswalk near Speedvale Avenue West and the Hanlon Expressway.

Police said a 19-year-old man was arrested after he allegedly followed the woman, pulled down her pants and sexually assaulted her in front of witnesses.

While authorities continue their efforts to address these concerns, they say there are steps residents can take to minimize risk.

Stay alert and move with confidence:

• Walk with purpose – Keep your head up, maintain a steady pace, and look confident in your direction.
• Stick to busy, well-lit areas – Avoid isolated streets or shortcuts that take you away from the crowd.
• Maintain personal space – If a stranger approaches, don’t let them get too close—even if they’re asking for something as simple as the time.

Be prepared, not paranoid:

• Dress for mobility – Wear shoes and clothing that allow you to move quickly if needed.
• Pack light & secure essentials – Carry only what you need and keep important items (keys, phone, ID) in separate pockets. Overloading yourself can make you an easy target.
• Have an escape plan – If you feel uncomfortable, know your nearest exit, store, or busy location where you can seek help.

What to do if you’re being followed:

• Change your route – Cross the street, switch directions, or walk toward a well-lit or crowded area.
• Use your voice – If you’re in a quiet area and suspect someone is following you, turn around and firmly ask, “Are you following me?” This can throw off their approach and alert others nearby.
• Avoid suspicious vehicles – If someone is following you in a vehicle, do not approach. Walk in the opposite direction and seek safety.

If you are confronted:

• Your safety comes first – If someone demands your belongings and has or implies they have a weapon, do not resist. Property can be replaced—your life cannot.
• Make noise and get away – If you are physically threatened, scream, run, and attract attention. Do whatever it takes to escape.
• Observe and remember – Try to take note of the suspect’s appearance, clothing, and any distinguishing features. If possible, write down details as soon as you are safe.

Authorities are also encouraging residents to trust their instincts.

“Pay attention to your ‘gut feelings’ and don’t be afraid to act on them,” police said in a media release.

Where to get help:

• In an emergency, call 911 or report incidents to police at 519-824-1212.
• For support, contact Victim Services Wellington at [phone], ext. 7304.
• For crisis support, call Guelph Wellington Women In Crisis at [phone] (24-hour Crisis Line).
• For medical attention, visit Guelph General Hospital’s Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Treatment Centre or call [phone], ext. 2210.