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A 17-year-old has been arrested and charged following an intimate partner violence investigation by the Upper Ottawa Valley OPP.
Police say the investigation began in October 2026 after reports of historical intimate partner violence dating back to the spring of this year.
The youth was arrested on Oct. 26 and faces five charges, including spousal assault, spousal assault with a weapon, assault causing bodily harm by choking, suffocating or strangling, and two counts of sexual assault.
The accused’s identity is being withheld under the Youth Criminal Justice Act and to protect the identity of the victim.
The youth was held for a bail hearing and later released, with a future appearance scheduled in Youth Court at the Ontario Court of Justice in Pembroke.
Police are reminding anyone experiencing abuse, or who knows someone in an abusive relationship, that support is available.
Bernadette McCann House offers 24-hour support and shelter services at 1-800-267-4930. The Women’s Sexual Assault Centre of Renfrew County can also be reached around the clock at 1-800-663-3060.
Victims can also seek assistance through hospital emergency departments, Victim Services of Renfrew County, or by calling 9-1-1 in an emergency.
(Steve Berard)
