New Westminster man facing multiple counts of sexual assault

A photo shows the back of a New Westminster police officer's jacket. (Twitter, New Westminster Police Department)

A New Westminster man has been charged with multiple counts of sexual assault after allegedly attacking at least one woman in his home and at his workplace.

In a release issued by the New Westminster Police Department Friday, police said Mark Anthony Bernardo has been charged with four counts of sexual assault and was released from custody.

According to investigators, the suspect invited the woman into his home for a job interview after she responded to an advertisement for female housekeepers, posted into a Facebook group.

The suspect allegedly sexually assaulted the woman shortly after the interview, at a home in the 800 block of Ontario Street, police said.

Sgt. Andrew Leaver said the New Westminster Police Department encourages anyone who may have information or concerns relating to the allegations to come forward.

“We understand the challenges victims face in reporting such incidents, and want to reassure the public that we take these matters very seriously and resources and support are available,” he said.

Anyone who might have more information, or who may have been a victim of a similar offence, is asked to contact the New Westminster Police Department – Major Crime Unit at 604-529-2430.

“The Major Crime Unit is working closely with the Victim Assistance Unit and counsellors on this file. The New Westminster Police Department provides a victim-centered approach and a trauma-informed practice,” the statement said.