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Residents in Chestermere and the surrounding area should be aware of a man believed to be using online dating apps to sexually assault women.
The Calgary Police Service (CPS) issued a warning to the public regarding the man on Mar. 12. According to police, 43-year-old Ali Kiani is believed to have contacted women through online dating apps under a false identity.
After gaining their trust, Kiani would allegedly sexually assault them.
Police said that a victim began messaging a man who identified himself as 'Alex' back in February 2024. The two met for the first time a week later at a local coffee shop.
The following day the suspect asked to spend more time with the victim and come to her home. The victim agreed, and when 'Alex' arrived, police mentioned he began sexually assaulting her.
CPS says that the victim immediately reported the assault to police, while 'Alex', identified as Kiani, deleted his profile from the dating app.
"Our Sexual Assault Investigative Unit began an investigation, and it was later determined the man created an online dating profile using the falsified name of Alex and exchanged messages with the victim under the fictitious alias," wrote Calgary police on the city's website.
After identifying Kiani as the suspect, police released a photo of him to the public to warn residents of his behaviour.
Anyone who believes they are a victim of sexual assault is asked to contact police by calling 403-266-1234. Anonymous tips can also be made through Crime Stoppers.