Whitby man charged following historical sexual assault investigation

A 65-year-old Whitby man has been charged following a sexual assault and sexual exploitation investigation conducted by the Durham Regional Police Service Special Victims Unit.

Police say the investigation, which concluded on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, relates to incidents that allegedly occurred in 2021 in the town of Whitby. Investigators report that an adult male is accused of sexually assaulting and exploiting a 16-year-old female who was employed by him at a frozen dessert business located near Baldwin Street South and Broadleaf Avenue between July and October 2021.

The accused has been identified as Ahmed Ashraf, 65, of Whitby. He is facing multiple charges, including three counts of sexual assault and three counts of sexual exploitation. Police say he was released on an undertaking following his arrest.

Police have also released his image.

Investigators have expressed concern that there may be additional victims and are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward and contact DRPS Special Victims Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5311 Or Anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477)