**** HRP Media Release
Police charge man in historical sexual assaults
Investigators with the Sexual Assault Investigation Team of the Integrated Criminal Investigation Division have charged a man in relation to historical sexual assaults that occurred in Dartmouth in the mid 2000s.
Investigators have charged Graeme Hamilton Bethune, 74, of Halifax, with one count of sexual assault in relation to incidents that occurred in a residence between 2005 and 2007.
Bethune is scheduled to appear in Halifax Provincial Court at a later date to face the charge.
Bethune was a family physician at the time of the incidents and was in a position of trust in relation to the victim who was a patient. The matter was reported to police in November 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.
