Religious Leader Charged Of Sexual Assault; Police Seek Additional Victims

India-West Staff Reporter

BRAMPTON – Peel Regional Police have charged a religious leader in connection with a sexual assault investigation and are appealing to the public for information regarding possible additional victims.

On March 3, the accused, identified as 69-year-old Ashok Kumar, also known as Ashok Sharma, attended a victim’s residence in Brampton to perform a religious ceremony. During this visit, he allegedly sexually assaulted the victim.

Following the investigation, Kumar was arrested on March 7, 2025, and charged with one count of sexual assault. He is scheduled to appear in court at the Ontario Court of Justice in Brampton in the near future.

Kumar, a religious leader who has been active in the Brampton community for several years, is believed to have been in contact with others who may have experienced similar offenses. Peel Police are urging anyone with additional information to come forward.

The Peel Regional Police Special Victims Unit is continuing the investigation and encourages anyone with knowledge of the incident or other potential victims to contact them directly at 905-453-2121, extension 3460. Those wishing to remain anonymous can provide tips through Peel Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or visiting www.peelcrimestoppers.ca.