A man who allegedly used his alleged victims’ interest in video games to build trust before sexually abusing them has been arrested in Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts, in the Laurentians, by the Sûreté du Québec (SQ).
Samuel Lacasse Couture, 32, is charged with sexually assaulting and having sexual contact with a minor. The facts alleged against him occurred between August 1, 2021 and March 21, 2023 in Val-Alain in Chaudière-Appalaches and Val-des-Sources in Estrie.
According to police, he “could have caused more victims due to his numerous trips to different regions of Quebec”.
The investigation also revealed that the suspect allegedly piqued his alleged victims’ interest in video games in order to gain their trust.
“As several victims were identified, the Serial Crime Investigation Management Structure (GECS) coordinated by the Sûreté du Québec was deployed. […] This state coordination therefore enables police resources to be pooled and is aimed at better victim protection,” says the SQ.