Police in Waterloo Region are continuing an active investigation into a series of criminal harassment incidents that have occurred over several months, prompting renewed public awareness efforts and an appeal for information. Authorities say the incidents, which span from mid-2025 through mid-December, involve a suspect who has been repeatedly seen in high-traffic public spaces, raising safety concerns for residents and commuters across the region.

Investigation Spans Several Months and Multiple Locations

According to the Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS), the criminal harassment investigation involves incidents reported between July 2025 and as recently as December 16, 2025. Investigators say the nature of the complaints indicates a concerning pattern rather than isolated events.

Pattern of Alleged Harassment

Police have not disclosed specific details about the victims or the exact nature of the harassment, citing the sensitive nature of the case and the need to protect those affected. However, officers confirmed that the incidents meet the threshold of criminal harassment under the Criminal Code of Canada, which can include repeated unwanted contact, following, or conduct that causes an individual to fear for their safety.

Members of the WRPS Special Victims Unit are leading the investigation, suggesting the allegations involve circumstances that require specialized handling and victim support.

Suspect Frequently Seen in Public Transit and Shopping Centres

Investigators say the suspect is believed to frequent several well-known locations across the region, making public assistance particularly important.

Key Locations Identified by Police

Police report that the suspect has been regularly observed at Conestoga Mall and Fairview Park Mall, two of the busiest shopping centres in Waterloo Region. In addition, officers say the individual has also been spotted using the ION light rail transit system.

These locations see thousands of visitors daily, increasing the possibility that members of the public may have encountered the suspect without realizing they were connected to an ongoing investigation.

WRPS is urging anyone who may have noticed suspicious or concerning behaviour at these locations to come forward, even if they are unsure whether the information is relevant.

Suspect Description Released to Public

To assist in the investigation, police have released a physical description of the individual they are seeking to identify.

Physical Characteristics

According to WRPS, the suspect is described as:

• A man with short, dark hair

• Medium build

• Approximately 5 feet 6 inches tall

No clothing description has been released at this time, as police believe the individual may change appearance frequently.

Investigators emphasize that this description is intended to generate tips and should not be used by the public to confront or approach anyone matching the description.

Police Emphasize Public Safety and Awareness

As the investigation continues, police are encouraging residents to remain vigilant while going about their daily routines, particularly in busy public areas.

Advice for Community Members

WRPS advises anyone who feels uncomfortable or believes they are being followed or harassed to trust their instincts and seek help immediately. Individuals are encouraged to move to well-lit, populated areas and contact police if they feel unsafe.

Police stress that criminal harassment can have serious emotional and psychological impacts on victims, even when no physical contact occurs. Early reporting, they say, is critical to preventing escalation.

Role of the Special Victims Unit

The involvement of the WRPS Special Victims Unit highlights the seriousness of the allegations and the need for a trauma-informed investigative approach.

Supporting Victims During the Investigation

The Special Victims Unit is trained to handle cases involving vulnerable individuals and complex personal circumstances. Their role includes gathering evidence, coordinating victim support services, and ensuring that investigations are conducted with sensitivity and care.

Police say they are working closely with victims to ensure their safety and well-being while the investigation remains ongoing.

Call for Public Assistance

Investigators believe public tips could play a key role in identifying and locating the suspect.

How to Provide Information

Anyone with information related to the suspect or the reported incidents is asked to contact the Waterloo Regional Police Service Special Victims Unit directly at 519-570-9777, extension 8792.

For those who wish to remain anonymous, tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers, which allows individuals to share information without revealing their identity.

Police stress that even seemingly minor details—such as unusual interactions witnessed at malls or on public transit—could help move the investigation forward.

Balancing Transparency and Privacy

While police have shared limited details publicly, they say this approach is necessary to protect the integrity of the investigation and the privacy of those involved.

Why Details Remain Limited

Criminal harassment cases often involve ongoing risks to victims, and releasing too much information prematurely can compromise safety or hinder investigative efforts. WRPS says additional details may be made public if doing so becomes necessary to advance the case.

In the meantime, police are relying on community awareness and cooperation to help identify the suspect.

Growing Awareness Around Criminal Harassment

The investigation comes amid broader efforts by police services across Ontario to raise awareness about criminal harassment and its impacts.

Understanding Criminal Harassment

Under Canadian law, criminal harassment can include repeated communication, following someone, watching their home or workplace, or engaging in threatening behaviour that causes fear. Police note that such actions can escalate over time if not addressed.

Authorities encourage anyone experiencing similar behaviour to report it, even if they are unsure whether it rises to the level of a criminal offence.

Conclusion: Investigation Ongoing as Police Seek Answers

As Waterloo Regional Police continue their investigation into the series of criminal harassment incidents, officers say public assistance remains vital. With the suspect believed to frequent major shopping centres and public transit, investigators are hopeful that someone may recognize the description or recall a concerning encounter.

Police reiterate that community safety is their top priority and that they are committed to bringing the investigation to a resolution. Anyone with information is urged to come forward, helping ensure accountability while supporting those affected by the alleged harassment.