On June 3, 2026, the Ottawa Police Service issued a Public Safety Notification concerning Christopher Roulston, a 46-year-old designated dangerous offender who will reside in Ottawa after being released from prison on day parole. Roulston is currently serving an indeterminate life sentence for three counts of sexual assault with a weapon and uttering threats in Toronto.
Release Conditions and Supervision
During his release, Roulston will reside in a community-based facility in Ottawa under structured supervision. Oversight is provided by the Correctional Service of Canada and monitored by the Ottawa Police Service High-Risk Offender Management Unit. Police stated that Roulston is subject to a curfew and several specific conditions.
Conditions Imposed on Roulston
- No direct or indirect contact with the victims of his offences.
- He must immediately report all relationships and friendships with females and any changes to their status.
- He is not to associate or communicate with anyone he knows or has reason to believe is involved in criminal activity.
- He is not to consume, buy, or possess alcohol.
- He is not to enter businesses where alcohol sales or consumption are the main source of income.
- He is not to consume, buy, or possess drugs, except prescribed medication taken as directed or over-the-counter medication taken as recommended.
Reason for Public Notification
The Ottawa Police Service issued the notification because the High-Risk Offender Management Unit believes Roulston poses a significant risk to public safety, particularly to women. This assessment is based on his history of violent stranger sexual assaults and the high risk that he would re-offend or breach his conditions.
How to Report Concerns
Anyone aware of potential breaches of Roulston's conditions should not approach him. Instead, contact the OPS High-Risk Offender Management Unit at 613-236-1222, extension 4395, or by email at HROM@ottawapolice.ca. In case of an emergency, call 911. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 or by email at crimestoppers.ca.
The police statement emphasized that this public safety warning is issued under the Community Safety and Policing Act. The Ottawa Police Service urges the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity related to Roulston.
