A ride operator at Canada’s Wonderland who allegedly sexually assaulted a young guest has been charged, and police believe there may be additional victims.
York Regional Police said that on May 25, a female youth was at the Vaughan, Ont., amusement park with her friends. As she was boarding a ride, police said she was sexually assaulted as the operator conducted safety checks.
Brampton resident Jugaad Dhami, 19, was charged with one count of sexual assault and one count of sexual interference.
Police released Dhami’s mugshot on Friday as they believe there may be additional victims.
In a statement to CP24, Canada’s Wonderland said the park does not tolerate “inappropriate and unlawful behaviour.”
“Upon being made aware of this situation, we investigated and took appropriate action. We are fully supporting local police in their investigation and are unable to comment further on an active legal matter,” the statement said.
Anyone with information about the investigation is asked to call the York Regional Police Special Victims Unit at 1-866-876-5423 or Crime Stoppers anonymously.
If you or someone you know is struggling with sexual assault or trauma, the following resources are available to support people in crisis:
- Call 911 if you are in immediate danger or fear for your safety.
- The Canadian Association of Sexual Assault Centres’ website has a comprehensive list of sexual assault centres in Canada that offer information, advocacy and counselling.
- The Ending Violence Association of Canada‘s website has links to helplines, support services and locations across Canada that offer sexual assault kits.
- Indian Residential School Survivors Society crisis lines: +1 866 925 4419 or +1 800 721 0066 (24/7)
- Toronto Rape Crisis Centre crisis line: +1 416 597 8808 (24/7)
- Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline: +1 833 900 1010 (24/7)
- Trans Lifeline: +1 877 330 6366
- Suicide Crisis Helpline: call or text 988 (24/7)
- Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre for current and former Canadian Armed Forces members: +1 844 750 1648
- Read about your rights as a victim on the Canadian Resource Centre for Victims of Crime website.
