Man from Ajax allegedly sexually harassed employee during attempted company robbery

Toronto police this week arrested an Ajax man accused of sexually assaulting an employee during an attempted robbery at an East End store.

According to police, the suspect entered a store on the corner of Gerrard Street East and Broadview Avenue on the morning of July 16.

He allegedly tried unsuccessfully to gain access to the cash register. Shortly afterwards, the suspect is said to have sexually harassed an employee.

He tried to open the cash register again, but was unsuccessful, police said. The suspect then fled the store.

On Saturday morning, police released a photo of the suspect, whom they identified as 43-year-old Garrabet Istanboulian.

Hours later, police announced that Istanbulian had been located and arrested. He is charged with robbery/assault with intent to steal, sexual battery and probation violation.

They continue to ask anyone with information to contact investigators at 416-808-5500 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477) or www.222tips.com.