Gatineau police have laid serious charges against an Ottawa man following a sexual assault investigation, and authorities are now concerned there may be additional victims who have not yet contacted law enforcement.
Charges Laid Against Ottawa Resident
According to a release from the Service de police de la Ville de Gatineau (SPVG), Lenny Owen Mudugu, a 27-year-old man from Ottawa, now faces multiple criminal charges. The charges were formally laid on January 15, 2026. Mudugu is specifically charged with sexual assault, sexual interference, and invitation to sexual touching.
The investigation is ongoing, and police have not released specific details about the circumstances of the alleged assault to protect the integrity of their case and the identity of the victim.
Police Seek Potential Additional Victims
A key aspect of the police announcement is a public appeal for information. Investigators believe it is possible that other individuals may have been victimized by the accused and have not yet reported the incidents to authorities.
The Gatineau police are actively encouraging anyone with information, or who believes they may have been a victim, to come forward. They assure the public that all reports will be handled with sensitivity and discretion.
Legal Process and Public Safety
The laying of these charges marks the beginning of the formal legal process. The accused will be required to answer to the charges in court. The police service's decision to publicize the charges and appeal for more victims is a common strategy in sensitive investigations to ensure all relevant evidence is gathered and to potentially prevent further offences.
Community safety remains a paramount concern for the SPVG. By making this information public, they aim to empower any other victims to seek help and justice while also reminding the public of the resources available for reporting sexual violence.
Anyone with information related to this case is urged to contact the Gatineau police directly. Support services for victims of sexual assault are also available through various local and national organizations.
