Calgary man faces charges of luring, sexually assaulting youth met on Snapchat

UPDATE: In January 2023, all charges against Joshua David Klassen were withdrawn.

A Calgary man has been charged withluring and sexually assaulting a male youth after police say they met on Snapchat.

The victim told policein Mayhemet a man on Snapchat a year and a half prior, according to a release.

Investigatorsbelieve the man was communicating regularly with youth, employing the username jordannewact@getpaidnow19. They said the suspectbegan facilitating in-person meetings that resulted in acts of sexual abuse.

A subsequent investigation conducted by thechild abuse unit revealed thatthe man had arranged to meet the victim in person roughly one to two times every two weeks between June 2020 and May 2021.

Police say the meetings occurred inside the man's vehicle a green Volvo, or a white work van, or sometimes in a camping trailer, where the youth was sexually assaulted and coerced into providing sexual services in exchange for money.

Joshua David Klassen, 34, was arrested and charged earlier this month. He has been charged with:

• 1 count of sexual assault.
• 2 counts of obtaining sexual services from a minor.
• 1 count of luring a minor.

He is scheduled to next appear in court on Nov. 22.

Police said the victim has been offered the resources and supports of the Luna Child and Youth Advocacy Centre, which providessupport for children, youth and families who have been impacted by severe abuse.

Its websiteprovides more information on how to recognize the signs of child abuse, and what to do if you suspect a child or youth is being abused.

There is no time limit on how long a victim has to report a sexual assault in Canada.

Victims of sexual assault can report it to police by calling the non-emergency police number at 403-266-1234, or 911 if they are in immediate danger.