(CARLI BERRY / iNFOnews.ca)

A former Kamloops man who was wanted for 11 counts of sexual assault and one count of assault following an RCMP investigation was arrested in Chilliwack yesterday.

In late September 2020, several Kamloops victims came forth after the Vernon RCMP arrested a man for offences related to sexual assault and forcible confinement. At the time, a public safety advisory was issued encouraging anyone who may have information about the offences to come forward. The Kamloops RCMP then received several reports of sexual assaults involving the same man, according to the RCMP press release.

An RCMP investigation resulted in the B.C. Prosecution Services approving charges, and a warrant of arrest was issued July 29, 2021.

Joel Eric Carlson, 28, was arrested in Chilliwack by the Kamloops and Chilliwack RCMP detachments and appeared in provincial court on these charges, Friday July 30.

"This investigation and the number of victims who came forward following the public safety advisory, reminds us of how many sexual assaults occur that are never reported to police for numerous reasons," said Sgt. Nestor Baird of the Kamloops RCMP Serious Crimes Unit, in the news release. "We are again asking anyone who may have information about this individual to please contact your local police."

In January 2021, Const. Rachel Buliziuk was hired to the Kamloops detachment as a sex-crimes investigator, responsible for reviewing and engaging in sexually related offences reported to the detachment.

Even if a victim is not ready to proceed with criminal charges, they are still encouraged to report any suspected sexual assault to police, according to the RCMP. Along with being able to offer and refer supports, officers can also collect data and information that may be able to assist in identifying more victims and helping to protect others. The Kamloops RCMP can be reached at 250-828-3000, or call 9-1-1 for emergencies.

Those who have or know someone who has experienced sexual violence and needs support, can call the Kamloops Sexual Assault Counselling Centre Crisis Line for local and confidential support available 24-hours a day, seven days a week, at 1-888-974-7278.

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