A 35-year-old man from Whitby now faces serious allegations following an encounter with a woman he met through an online dating application. The disturbing events unfolded on April 1st, in the Scarborough area near Lawrence Avenue East and Homestead Road, forever altering the course of the alleged victim’s life.
Toronto Police allege a sexual assault occurred during the meeting. But the alleged harm didn’t end there; investigators state the accused then subjected the woman to a sustained period of harassing behavior, compounding the initial trauma.
Following a thorough investigation, police arrested John Haylock on April 27th. He is now formally charged with one count of sexual assault and two counts of criminal harassment, accusations that carry significant legal consequences.
The investigation has revealed a concerning pattern of behavior. Authorities believe Haylock actively used multiple digital platforms – including Facebook, Facebook Dating, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) – alongside various other dating apps, to connect with individuals.
Detectives are now deeply concerned that other individuals may have unknowingly been targeted by Haylock. They have released his image to the public, hoping to reach anyone who may have had contact with him, either online or in person, and potentially experienced similar unwanted advances or harassment.
Anyone possessing information relevant to this case is urged to come forward. Individuals can contact the Toronto Police at 416-808-4300, or if they wish to remain anonymous, they can reach Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Every piece of information, no matter how small it may seem, could be crucial to the investigation.
