Yarmouth man charged in historical sexual offence investigation

CITYnews halifax/ By Mark Hodgins

The RCMP in Nova Scotia has charged a Yarmouth man in connection with sexual offences alleged to have happened in the 1990s and early 2000s, the force announced on Friday.

The Mounties say an investigation into historical sexual offences between 1995 and 2000 was launched in December. They say a victim, who was a youth at the time, was sexually assaulted by a man they knew.

A search warrant was executed in Yarmouth on Wednesday as part of that investigation, and police claim child sexual abuse material was seized, along with several electronic devices and weapons.

John Lonny Lumsden, 69, was arrested during the search, according to the RCMP.

He appeared in court on Thursday and is being held for a future appearance on charges including sexual interference, possession of child sexual abuse and exploitation materials and possession of prohibited weapons.

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“Supports are available, including through RCMP Victim Services, and anyone affected is encouraged to come forward,” read a media release from the RCMP. “Survivors can discuss incidents with officers before deciding to participate in an investigationand court process. The RCMP recognizes the lasting impact sexual offences can have on victims, including stress, shame, and fear. There is no time limit on these types of offences, even if a significant number of years have passed.”

Anyone with information is asked to reach out to police or Crime Stoppers.