Ottawa police are advising the public against approaching a dangerous high-risk sexual offender currently residing in the National Capital Region. Aaron Gilpin, aged 35, has a lengthy criminal history that includes convictions for severe child-related sexual assault, assault, weapons violations, disarming a police officer, break-ins, and theft. Authorities are urging the public to stay alert but to refrain from engaging with Gilpin or taking matters into their own hands.
The High-Risk Offender Management Unit has flagged Gilpin as a significant threat to public safety due to his violent and sexual offense background. Earlier this summer, Smiths Falls police also issued a similar caution after Gilpin was sighted in the area. Despite community concerns, it was Gilpin’s voluntary decision to leave Smiths Falls, as confirmed by Brett Lacey from the Smiths Falls police.
The Ottawa Rape Crisis Centre expressed alarm over Gilpin’s relocation to Ottawa, particularly concerning for survivors of sexual violence. The center emphasized the risks associated with confronting high-risk offenders and advised following safety guidelines to prevent potential danger. Ezioma Emejuaiwe, the executive director of the Sexual Assault Support Centre of Ottawa, supported the Ottawa police in alerting the community about individuals like Gilpin.
Criminal defense lawyer Michael Spratt acknowledged the challenges of public advisories, noting the impact on an individual’s rehabilitation and integration into society. While these warnings can help inform the public, they may also hinder the offender’s chances of employment, housing, and social services. The police encourage reporting any sightings of registered sex offenders to the High-Risk Offender Management Unit for verification and compliance with registry requirements.
OPS declined an interview but emphasized the importance of alerting authorities rather than confronting registered sex offenders directly. They clarified that being a registered sex offender and being subject to release conditions are distinct matters, and individuals may remain registered even after specific release conditions have ended.