Calgary man faces charges of luring, sexually assaulting youth met on Snapchat
Joshua David Klassen, 34, was arrested and charged earlier this month
UPDATE: In January 2023, all charges against Joshua David Klassen were withdrawn.
A Calgary man has been charged with luring and sexually assaulting a male youth after police say they met on Snapchat.
The victim told police in May he met a man on Snapchat a year and a half prior, according to a release.
Investigators believe the man was communicating regularly with youth, employing the username jordannewact@getpaidnow19. They said the suspect began facilitating in-person meetings that resulted in acts of sexual abuse.
A subsequent investigation conducted by the child abuse unit revealed that the man had arranged to meet the victim in person roughly one to two times every two weeks between June 2020 and May 2021.
Police say the meetings occurred inside the man's vehicle — a green Volvo, or a white work van, or sometimes in a camping trailer, where the youth was sexually assaulted and coerced into providing sexual services in exchange for money.
Joshua David Klassen, 34, was arrested and charged earlier this month. He has been charged with:
- 1 count of sexual assault.
- 2 counts of obtaining sexual services from a minor.
- 1 count of luring a minor.
He is scheduled to next appear in court on Nov. 22.
Police said the victim has been offered the resources and supports of the Luna Child and Youth Advocacy Centre, which provides support for children, youth and families who have been impacted by severe abuse.
Its website provides more information on how to recognize the signs of child abuse, and what to do if you suspect a child or youth is being abused.
There is no time limit on how long a victim has to report a sexual assault in Canada.
Victims of sexual assault can report it to police by calling the non-emergency police number at 403-266-1234, or 911 if they are in immediate danger.