24 october 2017

Sexual assault against a vulnerable teen: The SPVM is looking for potential victims of Erik Branz

Montréal, October 24, 2017 - On October 12, 2017, the Sexual Exploitation Unit, Child Pornography and Luring Division of the Section des crimes majeurs of the Service de police de la Ville de Montréal (SPVM) have arrested 46-year-old Erik Branz on charges of production of child pornography and sexual assault against a vulnerable person (with a serious mental disability). Investigators have reason to believe there may be other victims.

An investigation was first initiated by the Service partagé des enquêtes Ouest in May 2017 in relation to complaints of voyeurism involving Branz. The investigation led to the seizure of computer hardware belonging to the suspect, on which investigators of the Sexual Exploitation Unit discovered images of child pornography. They therefore pushed their investigations further and found images of a sexual assault that had not been previously reported. Their expertise and efforts enabled them to locate the victim of this assault and confirm Erik Branz's involvement in this new offence.

Modus operandi
The suspect worked as a window washer. While working at the victim's personal residence, he would use the opportunity to sexually assault her and record his actions. 

The victim was a teenager when the abuse began. Investigators confirm that the crimes could have been committed between May 2010 and October 2017. They have reason to believe there may have been other victims in West-Central Montréal.

Erik Branz is a 46-year-old man. He has a pale complexion. He is 5'9 (1.75 m) and weighs 150 lbs (68 kg). He has brown hair with a receding hairline. He speaks English.

The suspect appeared in Court on October 13, and was to remain in custody until his next Court appearance.

Anyone who may have been a victim of Erik Branz or who knows a potential victim is asked to visit their neighbourhood police station or to dial 911 to file an official complaint.

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For more information:
Relations Officer on Duty
Communications Department
Service de police de la Ville de Montréal (SPVM)
514 280-2777