Hamilton police charge 24-year-old man after child luring investigation

Hamilton police charged a 24-year-old man Friday in connection with a child luring and sexual assault investigation.

Officers say they began the investigation after incidents allegedly took place between 2024 and 2026.

They say the accused used social media platforms to communicate and allegedly meet young people.

Investigators arrested Joshua King McRea and charged him with the offences of sexual assault, sexual interference and for luring a child under the age of 16.

Detectives describe him as a five-foot-eight tall with a thin build, weighing around 132 lbs.

Police say people may not recognize that they were the victim of a criminal offence and suggest anyone that may have had online contact with him to reach out to the Hamilton Police Service Sex Crimes Unit at 905-546-8958 or the Sex Crimes Unit non-emergency line at 905-540-5553.

READ MORE: Halton police charge 61-year-old Brampton man with child luring