Edmonton child sexual assault suspect may have connections to Vernon, Kelowna

A 37-year-old man charged in connection to a child abduction and sexual assault in Edmonton earlier this month may have ties to Kelowna and Vernon.

The Edmonton Police Service arrested Wade Stene without incident at his Edmonton home March 21, according to a media release.

He remains in custody and is facing several charges including kidnapping, sexual assault with a weapon, invitation to sexual touching, sexual interference, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, uttering threats, making child pornography and possession of child pornography.

Police say Stene has lived and worked in several communities in Alberta and B.C., including Vernon and Kelowna. Investigators are concerned there may be other victims and have released photos of the suspect.

The police service describes Stene as a Caucasian male, 6’2” tall and weighing approximately 150 lbs. He has short brown hair and hazel eyes. Stene may alternate between having facial hair and remaining clean shaven.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact the Kelowna RCMP at 250-762-3300. Or remain completely anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or by leaving a tip online at www.crimestoppers.net.

To contact a reporter for this story, email Brie Welton or call (250) 819-3723 or email the editor. You can also submit photos, videos or news tips to the newsroom and be entered to win a monthly prize draw.

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