**** HRP Media Release
Police charge man in historical sexual assault
Investigators with the Sexual Assault Investigation Team of the Integrated Criminal Investigation Division have charged a man in relation to a historical sexual assault that occurred in Halifax in the 1980s.
Investigators have charged Wayne John Hankey, 76, of Halifax, with one count of sexual assault in relation to an incident against a man that occurred in 1988.
Hankey is scheduled to appear in Halifax Provincial Court at a later date to face the charge.
The incident occurred in student housing on the University of King’s College campus and Hankey was an employee at the university at the time of the incident, which was reported to police in September 2020. We are not releasing any further details out of respect and concern for the victim’s privacy and wellbeing.
We encourage anyone who is the victim of sexual assault to contact police. We want victims to know they will not be judged, and will be treated with compassion, dignity and respect throughout the entire investigative process. More information on reporting sexual assaults is available at http://ow.ly/Obdb30rsOSM
Sexual assault investigations are complex. As part of our victim-centered, trauma-informed approach to sexualized violence, we work closely with victims to ensure they’re willing to proceed with a police investigation. Police must also ensure the victim’s privacy is upheld and well-being is fully considered.
