For Immediate Release / July 30, 2026
RCMP - Makes Arrest in Youth Sexual Assault Investigation, Searching for More Victims
On March 9, 2026, St. Albert RCMP began an investigation into sexual interference and child luring involving a youth. The youth’s parents had reported that an adult was having an unlawful relationship with their child after having read text messages between the two.
On March 25, 2026, based on the information learned as a result of the review of the accused's past police involvement, a series of youth between the ages of 13 and 16 were identified as having had contact with the accused since fall of 2025. Of those, one additional youth was confirmed to be a victim and additional charges were sought.
As a result of the investigation, Eric Mark Simmons (26), a resident of St. Albert, has been charged with:
- Sexual assault (x2);
- Sexual interference (x2); and
- Luring a child under 16.
Simmons was brought before a justice of the peace and remanded into custody. He is to appear before the Alberta Court of Justice in St. Albert on July 31, 2026.
St. Albert RCMP believes there may be more victims who have yet to come forward. The investigation did reveal that Simmons would supply things such as alcohol and drugs to the youths in exchange for “hangouts”. A picture of the accused has been attached to this release for identification purposes. Furthermore, he is known to use the Snapchat handles ericsimmons1738 and ericsimmons9484, though others may also exist.
Anyone who believes they have been a victim of Simmons, or knows someone who has, is asked to please contact the St. Alberta RCMP at 780-458-4300. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the "P3 Tips" app available through the Apple App or Google Play store. To report crime online, or for access to RCMP news and information, download the Alberta RCMP app through Apple or Google Play. To contact RCMP non-emergency line within any Alberta RCMP jurisdiction call 310-RCMP(7267).
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Last edited: July 30, 2026