(St. John’s, NL) April 17, 2025 – The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC) has charged a St. John’s man with sexual assault.

On March 9, the RNC received a report from a young man who indicated he was sexually assaulted by another man at a home in the centre of St. John’s. The Child Abuse and Sexual Assault Unit was tasked to investigate. As a result, 57-year-old William (Bill) Howse has been charged with sexual assault.

The accused has been held in custody to appear in Provincial Court.

This is an active and ongoing investigation and anyone with information is asked to contact the RNC at 709-729-8000. In the event of an emergency, always call 911.

All survivors of sexual violence are encouraged to reach out for help from a trusted resource as soon as it is safe to do so. Members of the RNC Child Abuse and Sexual Assault Unit are available to speak with anyone that has information or questions. With a trauma-informed focus, officers educate and inform survivors of their legal and investigative options while also directing them to appropriate resources based on their individual situation or needs.

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File # 2025-15148

Public Communications Unit
Royal Newfoundland Constabulary
media@rnc.gov.nl.ca