Edmonton police arrest 6 youths for assaulting person after arranging meet-up through Grindr

By News Staff

Edmonton police on Friday said they have charged six male youths who assaulted an individual after arranging a meet-up through the 2SLGBTQ+ social media app Grindr last month.

Police said on March 27, officers responded to reports of an assault in the Calder neighbourhood. When the adult individual who arranged the meet-up via the dating app arrived, they were confronted, assaulted, struck with blunt objects, and robbed by a large group of youths. Their parked vehicle was also later found damaged.

EMS responded and transported them to the hospital with serious injuries.

After a thorough investigation, officers identified several suspects and determined that the app was used to lure the victim to the location under false pretenses.

“This use of social media to lure and assault someone is alarming and unacceptable,” said Det. Scott Rowbotham with Investigative Response Team (IRT).

Police executed search warrants at several residences on April 17-18, and six male youths between the ages of 15 and 16-years-old were arrested and charged with multiple offences, including aggravated assault, robbery, and mischief over $5,000.

“Given the unpredictable nature of meeting people online, we’d like to remind everyone, regardless of age, to be mindful when first meeting someone they only know through online channels. If possible, plan a location and tell a friend where you are going,” added Rowbotham.

Edmonton police are reminding the public of the borderless nature of the internet and how third-party apps interact with police, as well as limitations in law. Police say that if something goes wrong during a meeting, it can be difficult to obtain information and investigate. If one finds themselves in a similar situation, they must inform the police.

Police believe there may be additional victims, witnesses, or similar incidents. They say further arrests or charges may follow as new evidence emerges. The EPS Hate Crimes Unit is assisting in this investigation to help determine if these crimes were motivated by hate towards the 2SLGBTQ+ community.

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