An Edmonton police officer is facing allegations of sexual assault after reportedly tailing a woman from a gas station and engaging in unwanted physical contact while on duty, as per a lawsuit filed earlier this year. The Alberta police watchdog revealed that Const. Renzo Geronimo from the Edmonton Police Service has been charged with sexual assault, breach of trust, unlawful confinement, and trespassing in a dwelling. The investigation commenced in September 2023.
In April, a legal claim was submitted implicating former EPS chief Dale McFee and an unnamed officer referred to as “John Doe.” The lawsuit is pursuing damages amounting to $1.5 million. The woman’s lawyer, James Raworth, confirmed that both he and his client were made aware of the criminal charges related to the civil suit on Wednesday. Initially, they were unaware of the officer’s full name when the claim was initially filed.
The woman, whose identity remains confidential due to her involvement in a sexual assault case, expressed relief upon the recent developments. Raworth acknowledged the lengthy process and the emotional toll it had taken on his client, emphasizing the uncertainty and distress she endured over the past two years.
It is essential to note that the criminal charges against Geronimo are yet to be proven, and the allegations in the civil claim have not been tested in court. A defense statement has not been submitted in the case, with an EPS spokesperson indicating that this was part of an agreement with the plaintiff. The legal proceedings were paused while awaiting a decision on the potential laying of charges.
The reported incident originated at a gas station where the woman was refueling her vehicle, and an EPS cruiser was present. Following her departure, the cruiser trailed her and activated its police lights, alleging that she was speeding and swerving, claims she denies. Subsequently, the officer purportedly inspected her documents, seized her phone, and offered to escort her home under the guise of ensuring her safety.
Upon reaching her residence, the officer allegedly blocked her vehicle, entered her home, and made inappropriate advances, despite her resistance. The woman detailed disturbing encounters in the basement, including unwelcome physical contact and coercive behavior by the officer. She eventually alerted the police about the assault.
After the encounter, the officer reportedly contacted the woman, met her in an alley, and engaged in further inappropriate behavior before leaving. The woman promptly reported the assault to the authorities. Geronimo, who has served with EPS for five years, is currently in a non-frontline role, with his duty status subject to review following the criminal charges.