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Investigators with the Special Investigation Section of the Integrated Criminal Investigative Division have charged a man in relation to multiple historical sexual assaults that occurred throughout the Halifax region in the 1980-90s.
Police began an investigation in October 2016 after several victims came forward to report historical sexual assaults that occurred in the 1970-90s at different locations in the Halifax region.
Investigators arrested Jaddus Joseph Poirier, 77, without incident at an address in Halifax at approximately 8 a.m. on April 10. Poirier is facing three counts of gross indecency, six counts of sexual assault, three counts of sexual exploitation, and two counts each of sexual interference and invitation to sexual touching as per the criminal codes that were in effect at the time the offences occurred. He is scheduled to appear in Dartmouth Provincial Court today.
The three victims were youths at the time of the offences and Poirier was in a position of trust in relation to the victims as a teacher. We are not releasing any further details to protect the identity of the victims.
The investigation is ongoing, and we encourage anyone who is the victim of sexual assault to contact police. We want victims to know they will not be judged, and will be treated with compassion, dignity and respect throughout the entire investigative process. More information on reporting sexual assaults is available at https://www.halifax.ca/fire-police/police/programs-services/victim-services-halifax/sexual-assault-reporting-process
Sexual assault investigations are complex. As part of our victim-centered, trauma-informed approach to sexualized violence, we work closely with victims to ensure they’re willing to proceed with a police investigation. Police must also ensure the victim’s privacy is upheld and well-being is fully considered.