The LPS has released an image of the suspect, Malek Fares, “in an effort to encourage unidentified victims, who may not know him by name or only by an alias, to come forward”. (Photo: Lethbridge Police Service)

By Justin Goulet

Lethbridge man charged with sexual assault for second time in two months

Feb 6, 2024 | 4:05 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Police have charged a 47-year-old man, for the second time in two months, in connection with an incident where a woman was reportedly sexually assaulted inside a trailer.

On January 30, 2024, the Lethbridge Police Service (LPS) responded to a report that a 26-year-old woman had been sexually assaulted by a man inside a trailer. Police noted the trailer was parked in a lot along the 3700 block of Mayor Magrath Drive South.

After the alleged assault occurred, police said the victim left the trailer and the man followed her inside a nearby store, where she waited for police inside the women’s washroom. The male suspect was arrested without incident inside the business. Police said the man and woman are known to one another.

Malek Fares, a 47-year Lethbridge man, is charged with sexual assault. Police said he has been released from custody with conditions of not contacting the victim. He is due in court March 27.

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The LPS said this is not Fares’ first time facing sexual assault charges.

On December 8, 2023, police received a report that a 39-year-old woman had been sexually assaulted by a man inside a trailer parked in a lot along the 3700 block of Mayor Magrath Drive South.

In this incident, police said the victim also reported that the suspect had previously assaulted her by causing burn injuries. Officers found the male suspect and truck and trailer still parked in the lot. The suspect was arrested without incident. Police noted that both the accused and victim knew each other.

Fares was charged with sexual assault, assault with a weapon, and assault.

READ MORE: Lethbridge Police charge man in connection with alleged sexual assault

The LPS reported that upon further investigation, it was found that Fares is reportedly known to frequent the Lethbridge Shelter and downtown area and “engage vulnerable women”. Police said they have obtained evidence “from multiple sources that he has victimized additional women”.

The LPS has released an image of the suspect, “in an effort to encourage unidentified victims, who may not know him by name or only by an alias, to come forward”.

Anyone with information, or who has been victimized, is asked to contact police at 403-328-4444 and reference file 24001791. Individuals with information can also contact Crime Stoppers.

READ MORE: Lethbridge Police charge man in connection with alleged sexual assault

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