Sudbury police seek man wanted for sexual assault, criminal harassment

Sudbury police are looking for Matthew Francis, 43, wanted on two warrants for sexual assault, threats and criminal harassment.

The Greater Sudbury Police Service is asking for help locating a 43-year-old man wanted on two arrest warrants.

Wanted on multiple charges

Matthew Francis is wanted for sexual assault, uttering threats to cause death or bodily harm, criminal harassment – repeatedly following, and criminal harassment – engaging in threatening conduct.

“Due to the sensitive nature of these incidents and to protect the identities of the victims/survivors, no further information will be provided,” said police in a news release Wednesday.

Suspect evading police

“Officers have made multiple attempts to locate Matthew Francis, however it is believed he is actively evading police,” the release said.

Public safety concern

The local police service said there is a concern for public safety as the individuals involved in these incidents are not known to each other, and the incidents were unrelated.

Anyone with information about Francis’ whereabouts is asked to call Greater Sudbury police at 705-675-9171 or contact Crime Stoppers.

Resources for sexual assault survivors

If you or someone you know is struggling with sexual assault or trauma, the following resources are available to support people in crisis:

• If you are in immediate danger or fear for your safety, you should call 911.
• A full list of sexual assault centres in Canada that offer information, advocacy and counselling can be found at ReeseCommunity.com. Resources in your community can be found by entering your postal code.
• Helplines, legal services and locations that offer sexual assault kits in Alberta, B.C., Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Quebec, Ontario and Nova Scotia can be found here.
• 24-hour crisis line: 1-416-597-8808
• Assaulted Women’s Helpline: 1-866-863-0511
• National Residential School Crisis Line: 1-866-925-4419
• Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline: [phone]
• Trans Lifeline: 1-877-330-6366
• Sexual misconduct support for current or former members of the Armed Forces: 1-844-750-1648

Read about your rights as a victim here.