‘Violent’ high-risk offender living in Ottawa
Posted Aug 21, 2026 03:40:32 PM.
Last Updated Aug 21, 2026 03:40:14 PM.
Ottawa police are alerting the public to a high-risk offender who now lives in the city.
Previously, the public was warned about Aaron Gilpin, 35, who was spotted in Smiths Falls. Police in the town said he was convicted of a “brutal” sexual assault involving a child. He has an extensive criminal record dating back to the early 2000s
Now, police in the nation’s capital said on Aug. 21 he has been relocated from Smiths Falls to Ottawa and is living downtown.
He has a criminal history that includes weapon offences, disarming a police officer, break and enters and thefts along with the sexual assault. He’s been in and out of custody for several years.
Officials released his photo and the warning because police believe he is at an “elevated risk” of re-offending now that he is no longer on conditions of release.
Gilpin does present a safety risk to the public, his rights are guaranteed under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms Act.
He is described as a white male, about 6’0″ tall, with a medium build and hazel eyes.
“Aaron Gilpin came to the recent attention of police after a suspicious person’s call was received at the gazebo area beside town hall,” Smiths Falls police said. “Although no criminal offences occurred, it caused concern to the officers.”
Ottawa police are asking anyone who sees Gilpin involved in criminal activity to not approach him and contact 911 immediately.
